Finance ministers from at least 11 countries warn of prolonged impact of conflict in the Middle East

United States blocks Strait of Hormuz Finance ministers from at least eleven countries stated this Wednesday (15) that the conflict in the Middle East should continue to put pressure on global growth, inflation and financial markets, even if there is a lasting solution. In a joint statement released by the UK government during the Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank in Washington, ministers warned of new risks to the global economy. The document was signed by finance ministers from the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, Sweden, the Netherlands, Finland, Spain, Norway, Ireland, Poland and New Zealand. According to the group, a possible resumption of hostilities, the expansion of the conflict or continued interruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could affect energy security, supply chains and economic and financial stability. Vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, off the coast of Musandam province, Oman, April 12, 2026. Reuters According to the group, even with the end of the conflict, the effects on the global economy tend to persist. In the text, the countries also committed to adopting “fiscally responsible” internal measures aimed at the most vulnerable population. Furthermore, they advocated that governments avoid protectionist actions, such as unjustified export controls, stockpiling and other trade barriers related to hydrocarbons and supply chains affected by the crisis. The IMF expects at least a dozen countries, including some in sub-Saharan Africa, to pursue new lending programs in the face of rising energy prices and supply chain disruptions caused by war in the Middle East, said IMF Director General Kristalina Georgieva. She reiterated the estimate that the conflict could generate a demand for loans of between US$20 billion and US$40 billion, including the expansion of existing programs and the creation of new agreements. Income Tax 2026: see how to obtain the income report from the bank, company and INSS Diesel price rises 7% in Brazil: understand the reason

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