Japan is preparing for a potentially prolonged energy crisis, announcing the country’s largest-ever strategic oil release as the US-Israel conflict with Iran threatens to disrupt Middle Eastern oil supplies. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed that about 80 million barrels of state crude — 45 days of Japan’s domestic demand — will be distributed to refiners starting this week. A prior 15-day release from private-sector reserves was approved last week. With over 90% of Japan’s crude imported from the Middle East, the stakes could not be higher.
Takaichi has emphasised preparedness and sustainability in Japan’s response. She declined US President Trump’s request to deploy Japanese naval forces to the Strait of Hormuz, citing the constitution, and has pledged diplomatic engagement for the long haul. The prime minister’s framing of the crisis as one that may require sustained action over an extended period reflects her government’s serious assessment of the regional situation. Her government is committed to maintaining its full crisis response for as long as necessary.
The current oil release — 80 million barrels — is 1.8 times the volume made available after the Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011. Japan’s total reserves of approximately 470 million barrels cover around 254 days of domestic demand. Officials have confirmed that the drawdown does not compromise long-term reserve adequacy. The government is prepared to activate further releases if the crisis extends or intensifies.
Fuel subsidies have been introduced to cap retail petrol at ¥170 per litre after record highs of ¥190.8. The weekly review mechanism ensures the subsidies remain responsive to evolving oil market conditions. Energy economists have praised the flexibility of the policy design. The long-term commitment to both reserve drawdowns and consumer subsidies reflects the government’s preparedness to sustain its response over time.
Panic over toilet paper and household goods shortages has spread on social media. The trade ministry moved quickly to clarify that 97% of Japan’s toilet paper is produced domestically from recycled materials and is independent of oil supply. The paper industry association confirmed stable supply and scalable production. Japan is bracing for a long crisis with a comprehensive, sustainable, and evidence-based strategy.