Japan aims to source 100% [1] of its crude oil imports from outside the Strait of Hormuz by July 2026.

This shift represents a drastic departure from Japan's historical energy strategy, which previously relied on the Strait of Hormuz for over 90% [1] of its crude oil. The move comes as escalating tensions in the Middle East have led to the de-facto closure of the critical waterway, forcing the government to rapidly diversify its procurement to avoid energy shortages.

Prime Minister Takashi and other government officials said the country is now sourcing crude from the U.S., Central Asia, and Central and South America [1, 2]. Current data shows that approximately 80% [1] of crude oil is already being sourced from non-Hormuz regions. To further bolster this transition, imports of U.S. crude oil have increased to eight times [2] the volume seen in the previous year.

While the government is moving toward total diversification, the status of the strait remains a point of contention. Some reports indicate the waterway is effectively sealed off, while shipping company Mitsui O.S.K. Lines has suggested a timeline for the normalization of navigation by July [1, 2].

To mitigate the risk of supply disruptions during this transition, Japan is utilizing its strategic petroleum reserves. Officials said these reserves are intended to ensure the stability of the national oil supply through March 31, 2028 [1].

“Japan aims to source 100% of its crude oil imports from outside the Strait of Hormuz by July 2026.”

Japan's pivot away from the Strait of Hormuz signals a permanent shift in its national security architecture, prioritizing supply chain resilience over the lower costs typically associated with Middle Eastern oil. By leveraging strategic reserves and increasing reliance on the Western Hemisphere, Tokyo is attempting to decouple its economy from the volatility of the Persian Gulf, though this transition increases its dependency on U.S. energy exports.