Japan Plans Alternative Oil Routes To Cut Dependence On Hormuz Passage

Sanae Takaichi, Japanese Prime Minister, has outlined steps to secure Japan’s energy supplies, stating that the country expects to meet around 60 per cent of its crude oil demand for May through routes that avoid the Strait of Hormuz.

The announcement followed a high-level government meeting focused on the ongoing situation in West Asia and its impact on global energy flows.

According to the Prime Minister’s office, Japan is diversifying its sourcing strategy to reduce reliance on traditional routes.

In addition to supplies from the Middle East and the United States, Japan plans to increase imports from regions such as Central Asia, Latin America and the Asia-Pacific to maintain stable energy inflows.

The government has also taken steps to secure essential petroleum-based materials.

Authorities confirmed that supplies needed for medical items such as dialysis tubing have been ensured until the end of September by prioritising production at overseas facilities operated by Japanese firms.

Officials said they have already arranged adequate quantities of agricultural plastic products for the current season. These include mulch sheets and rice packaging materials.

The Prime Minister directed relevant ministries to make full use of regional cooperation frameworks. The move aims to address longer-term concerns. It is intended to maintain supply stability from October onwards.

Additional measures include close monitoring of supply chains and coordination with manufacturers to prevent disruptions that could affect food production.

Separately, Japan has decided to release more oil from its strategic reserves starting May 1. This follows an earlier move to draw down stockpiles to stabilise domestic supply after tensions escalated in West Asia.

According to the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the latest release will involve about 5.8 million kilolitres of crude. The value is roughly 540 billion yen.

Japan remains heavily dependent on West Asia for its oil needs. More than 90 per cent of its imports originate from the region. Much of this supply typically passes through the Strait of Hormuz.

Also Read: Japan To Release More Oil Reserves From 1 May Over Strait Of Hormuz Concerns