Strait of Hormuz Disrupted, Japan Expanding Oil Supplies from US and Africa

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Japan is rapidly increasing its purchases of crude oil from outside the Middle East due to disruptions in shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. The country is now seeking supplies from the United States, Azerbaijan, South Sudan, and Sakhalin in Russia's Far East.

Kyodo News, citing several sources, reported on Thursday, June 11, that Japan estimated its crude oil imports in July could return to last year's levels. This projection comes as the global conflict disrupts the world's primary energy routes.

Japan has historically relied on the Middle East for more than 90% of its crude oil imports, with most supplies passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This strategic passage is typically used by around 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas.

The disruption in the Strait of Hormuz has forced Tokyo to find new suppliers. Earlier, the Japanese government estimated that crude oil imports in June were approximately 80% compared to the same period last year.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is expected to announce July's import projections at a ministerial-level meeting on Thursday. The meeting will focus on Japan's response to developments in the Middle East.

The situation has increased pressure on Japan, a resource-scarce country, to broaden its oil supply sources. The United States and Israel's attack on Iran in late February added to the uncertainty, making it challenging for Japan to find reliable suppliers.

Japan received its first crude oil shipment from the United States in April, following the escalation in the Middle East. Since May, Japan has secured supplies from Azerbaijan, South Sudan, and Sakhalin.

A source quoted by Kyodo stated that the July projection reflects Japan's progress in securing alternative supplies.

The English, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, and French versions are automatically generated by AI. Consequently, there might be inaccuracies in translation. For the most accurate information, please refer to the Indonesian version.

Tag: Strait of Hormuz, Middle East conflict, oil tanker, crude oil, United States, Africa

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