Japan to Release Additional Oil Reserves Amid Middle East Conflict
Japan is taking decisive action to safeguard its energy security as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East intensify. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced on Friday, April 10, 2026, that the government will release additional oil from its national reserves starting in early May to ensure a stable supply of crude oil.
- Japan will release approximately 20 days’ worth of oil reserves starting in early May.
- This marks the second dip into strategic reserves since the US-Israel war on Iran began in February.
- The move follows a record-breaking release of 50 days’ worth of oil in March.
- Japan imports 95% of its crude oil from the Middle East, primarily via the Strait of Hormuz.
Strategic Response to Energy Shortages
The decision comes as concern grows over energy shortages triggered by the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. During a ministerial meeting, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasized that the release is essential to maintain stability in the face of regional volatility.
This is not the first time Tokyo has acted this year. In March, the government approved its largest-ever release—50 days’ worth of oil—in an attempt to prevent a sharp spike in fuel prices. The upcoming May release will add another 20 days of national consumption to the market.
Addressing Supply Chain Bottlenecks
Beyond crude oil, the Japanese government is addressing specific shortages in downstream products. Prime Minister Takaichi noted public concern regarding the availability of paint thinners used for automobile maintenance and home construction. To combat this, she has instructed Infrastructure and Transport Minister Kaneko Yasushi and Industry Minister Akazawa Ryosei to eliminate supply chain obstacles.
To further streamline distribution, Takaichi called for specific fuels to be sold directly from wholesalers to businesses, bypassing distributors. These include:
- Type-A heavy fuel oil: Used in the production of green tea.
- Light diesel oil: Essential for trucks and buses.
Japan’s Energy Vulnerability and Resilience
Japan’s reliance on the Middle East is a significant strategic vulnerability, as the country imports 95% of its crude oil from the region, with the majority passing through the Strait of Hormuz. To mitigate this, the government is actively seeking alternative procurement routes and sources.
Current Reserve Status
Despite the recent releases, Japan maintains a substantial buffer. The country currently holds enough oil to last 230 days. Of this total, 143 days’ worth are state-owned, while the rest are held by oil-producing countries in the Gulf and the private sector.
Prime Minister Takaichi stated that Japan should be able to secure sufficient oil to last beyond the current year. The government is examining requests for procurement support from “like-minded countries.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Japan releasing oil reserves now?
The releases are a response to the US-Israel war on Iran that began in February, which has created uncertainty and potential shortages for countries heavily dependent on Middle Eastern oil.
How much oil has been released so far in 2026?
Japan released a record 50 days’ worth of oil in March and plans to release another 20 days’ worth starting in early May.
Is Japan running out of oil?
No. Japan currently has reserves sufficient for 230 days and the Prime Minister believes the country can secure enough oil to last through the end of the year.
As the conflict in the Middle East continues to evolve, Japan’s strategy of combining strategic reserve releases with the diversification of supply routes will be critical to avoiding an economic shock caused by energy volatility.
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