Takaichi confirms additional oil stockpile releases for next month

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.

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Tokyo stocks fall for third day amid Middle East tensions, economic concerns

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Tokyo stocks declined for a third consecutive day as tensions escalated in the Middle East over Iran. Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda warned of significant potential impacts on the economy, while the government stated there would be no immediate disruptions to oil supplies.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol on Wednesday, requesting preparations for an additional coordinated oil stockpile release to hedge against a prolonged Middle East conflict. Birol said the agency is ready to proceed if necessary.

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The Japanese government is weighing the use of part of its national oil reserves due to supply disruptions from the Iran crisis. Kyodo News reported on Friday that the Strait of Hormuz is effectively closed, affecting imports. Officials plan to monitor the situation and possibly coordinate with other countries.

Tokyo stocks plunged on March 9, 2026, as surging oil prices fueled by escalating Middle East tensions rattled investors. The Nikkei 225 average fell 5.2% to close at 52,728.72, after dipping as much as 7.6% intraday. Fears of inflation and economic slowdown intensified amid the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran.

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Amid U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Korean government stated that oil and gas supplies remain stable for now. Emergency meetings confirmed reserves of several months' worth of oil and gas exceeding mandatory levels. However, preparations are underway for potential risks from the Strait of Hormuz closure, including alternative routes and support measures.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met U.S. President Donald Trump in Tokyo on October 28 for their first summit, informing him that Japan intends to continue importing Russian liquefied natural gas for the time being. The U.S. had urged Japan to end such imports to bolster sanctions on Russia, but Takaichi stressed the necessity due to risks of domestic power shortages. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral ties and defense cooperation.

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The Japanese government has welcomed the United States' decision to extend the import permit for Russia's Sakhalin-2 oil and gas project in the Far East. This allows trading giants Mitsui and Mitsubishi, which hold stakes in the project, to continue procuring LNG. The permit has been extended until June 18, 2026.

 

 

 

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