Japan Faces Fuel Shortages Amid Middle East Tensions

Japan is experiencing fuel shortages across its cities and rural areas, affecting sectors from public transportation to agriculture. According to Jin10, the disruptions are exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Iran, which has begun to impact daily life. Japan, heavily reliant on Middle Eastern oil imports, is particularly affected by the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This week, major refiner Idemitsu Kosan Co. started reducing supplies to customers, and gasoline prices have surged by 18% over the past week, reaching a 36-year high. Farmers are struggling to procure diesel for tractors and other equipment ahead of the planting season, which typically begins in April. Dealers have imposed sales limits and are seeking alternative supply sources, while several suppliers report having no stock available for distribution.