Japan’s government has announced an unprecedented drawdown of its strategic oil reserves in response to growing energy supply risks tied to the US-Israel conflict with Iran. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed the release of approximately 80 million barrels — enough to cover 45 days of Japan’s domestic oil consumption. This marks the largest emergency reserve release in Japanese history, exceeding even the response to the 2011 Fukushima nuclear catastrophe. With the Strait of Hormuz under increasing pressure, Tokyo is acting decisively to protect its energy infrastructure.
Japan’s near-total reliance on Middle Eastern crude oil has long made it one of the most energy-insecure major economies in the world. More than 90% of its oil imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz, and any prolonged closure of the waterway would be economically devastating. Takaichi has maintained Japan’s non-military stance in the conflict, telling US President Trump at a Washington summit that Japan’s postwar constitution prevents it from dispatching naval forces to the region. Tokyo has instead committed to diplomatic efforts and emergency economic preparedness.
In addition to the state reserve release, Japan’s government last week approved a release of 15 days of private-sector stocks. The total amount being made available to refiners — 80 million barrels — is 1.8 times what was released in the wake of the 2011 Fukushima disaster. Japan’s remaining reserves stand at around 470 million barrels, or 254 days of domestic demand. The scale of the current response underscores the depth of concern in Tokyo about the longevity of the current disruption.
Consumer protection has been addressed through government fuel subsidies, which are holding petrol prices at ¥170 per litre following a record high of ¥190.8. These subsidies are reviewed every week and can be adjusted to track oil price changes. The government’s willingness to intervene so directly in the fuel market reflects the political sensitivity of rising energy costs. Energy affordability is seen as a key factor in maintaining public trust and economic stability.
Social media posts warning about toilet paper and food shortages have triggered hoarding behaviour in some parts of the country. Japan’s trade ministry has responded quickly, urging the public to make careful, informed purchasing decisions and clarifying that toilet paper production is largely domestic and unaffected by oil import disruptions. The paper industry association confirmed steady supply and the ability to scale up production. Officials say calm and accurate information sharing is essential to navigating the current crisis without unnecessary disruption to daily life.