Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced Japan will release approximately 20 days [2] of crude oil reserves starting in early May [3].
The move comes as Japan attempts to insulate its economy from volatile energy markets. Because the country relies heavily on imported fuel, instability in the Middle East poses a direct threat to domestic energy security and price stability.
Takaichi said the announcement during the third meeting of the Ministerial Meeting on the Middle East Situation, held at the Prime Minister's Official Residence on April 10, 2026 [1]. The government is taking these steps to mitigate the impact of supply disruptions caused by regional tensions.
"We will make every effort to ensure the stable supply of crude oil," Takaichi said [3].
The decision to release these reserves follows a series of high-level discussions regarding the geopolitical climate in the Middle East. Takaichi said the policy to release approximately 20 days [2] of oil stocks would begin from early May onward [3].
This strategic release is intended to prevent sudden price spikes and ensure that industrial activity remains uninterrupted. The government's approach focuses on maintaining a steady flow of resources despite the unpredictable nature of the current global supply chain.
“"We will make every effort to ensure the stable supply of crude oil,"”
Japan's decision to tap into its strategic reserves signals a high level of concern regarding the longevity of current Middle East tensions. By releasing 20 days of supply, Tokyo is attempting to create a buffer against potential price shocks, though such a move is typically a temporary measure rather than a long-term solution to energy dependency.
