Japan began a second release of its national oil reserves on May 2 [1, 2] to ensure energy stability amid escalating Middle East tensions.
The move follows the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. By tapping into strategic reserves, the government aims to mitigate the risk of fuel shortages and price volatility caused by the disruption of crude oil supplies.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said the government will take all necessary measures to ensure the stable supply of crude oil [3]. The current release involves approximately 5.8 million kiloliters of oil [1], which represents about 20 days of domestic consumption [1].
Operations are being carried out across 10 locations nationwide [1], including the Shibushi National Oil Storage Base in Kagoshima Prefecture [1, 3]. This strategic deployment is intended to buffer the economy against the impact of prolonged conflict in the region.
The decision comes after warnings from industry leaders regarding the fragility of the energy market. Shunichi Kito, chairman of Idemitsu Kosan and the Petroleum Federation of Japan, said that a second release of reserves would be necessary if the war in Iran were to be prolonged [3]. Other officials from the Petroleum Federation said the second release should be implemented in May [2].
This action is part of a broader international effort to manage energy security. The International Energy Agency has coordinated a total release of 400 million barrels among member nations to stabilize global markets [4].
“Japan is releasing approximately 5.8 million kiloliters of oil, representing about 20 days of domestic consumption.”
Japan's reliance on imported energy makes it exceptionally vulnerable to maritime disruptions in the Middle East. By initiating a second wave of reserve releases, the Takaichi administration is attempting to signal market stability and prevent domestic panic. However, the use of these reserves is a finite solution; prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz could eventually deplete strategic stockpiles, forcing the government to seek more permanent alternative energy routes or accelerate diversification of its energy mix.
