Japan's Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi confirmed on April 10 that the country will release more oil from its national stockpiles next month, following initial draws in March amid Middle East war disruptions.
The announcement builds on Japan's efforts to stabilize energy supplies after supply disruptions from a Middle East conflict drove up prices. The government, holding the world's largest reserves, began tapping stockpiles in March.
Takaichi stated that further releases are planned for next month to curb domestic oil cost spikes, according to The Japan Times.