Japan has announced a record strategic oil release, with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirming that about 80 million barrels of state crude will be distributed to refiners to prevent operational shutdowns. The release, covering 45 days of Japan’s oil demand, is the largest the country has ever undertaken and begins this week. It follows a separate 15-day release of private-sector reserves approved last week. The driving concern is that the US-Israel conflict with Iran could cut off tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, leaving Japan’s refineries without adequate feedstock.
Japan imports more than 90% of its crude from the Middle East, and the Strait of Hormuz is the only maritime route through which that oil reaches the country. A closure of this waterway would quickly translate into refinery shutdowns and fuel shortages across the Japanese economy. Prime Minister Takaichi has declined to engage militarily in the region, pointing to Japan’s pacifist constitution, and told US President Trump that naval deployments abroad are constitutionally prohibited. Tokyo has instead activated its strategic reserves and engaged diplomatically with partner nations.
At 1.8 times the volume released after the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster, the current drawdown sets a new national record. Japan holds approximately 470 million barrels in total reserves, covering about 254 days of domestic demand. The government has confirmed that the current release does not threaten Japan’s long-term reserve adequacy. Further drawdowns remain on the table if the situation worsens or extends beyond current projections.
Consumer fuel prices had climbed to a record ¥190.8 per litre before the government stepped in with subsidies setting a cap of ¥170. These are reviewed weekly and adjusted to track oil market movements. The transparent and flexible design of the subsidy has been praised by energy analysts. The government is committed to keeping the policy in place for as long as the supply disruption continues.
Social media posts about toilet paper shortages have spurred some consumers to hoard. The trade ministry issued guidance confirming that 97% of Japan’s toilet paper is produced domestically from recycled materials and has no connection to oil imports. Industry representatives confirmed stable supply and said output can be increased if needed. Japan’s authorities are urging rational behaviour and reminding the public that its domestic manufacturing base is fully capable of meeting consumer needs.