Japan will release an additional 20 days' worth of oil reserves starting in May 2026, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced this week, as Middle East conflicts continue to disrupt global energy markets. The move aims to stabilize domestic supply while accelerating efforts to diversify import routes beyond the volatile Strait of Hormuz.
With 95% of its oil historically sourced from the Middle East, Japan began coordinated reserve releases in March 2026 through multilateral agreements. The new release supplements existing measures, bringing total emergency provisions to 70 days' worth of supply. As of April 6, Japan maintains 230 days' worth of oil reserves overall.
Prime Minister Takaichi confirmed that over half of May's imports will bypass the Strait of Hormuz via alternative Middle Eastern routes like Saudi Arabia's Port of Yanbu and the UAE's Port of Fujairah. The government is also negotiating with suppliers in the Americas, Africa, and Central Asia to secure non-Middle Eastern barrels.
In a targeted approach, authorities have requested direct fuel allocations to critical sectors including healthcare, agriculture, and fisheries. This includes support for green tea producers and livestock operations facing rising energy costs.
Analysts suggest Japan's strategy reflects broader Asian efforts to build energy resilience amid geopolitical uncertainties. The announcement comes as global markets monitor supply chain adaptations across the continent.
