Flag of Japan. Photo by Kulbir on Pexels.com
Japan expected to source more than 70 percent of its crude oil needs in June from suppliers outside the Middle East, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said Tuesday.
Takaichi made the disclosure during a meeting with relevant ministers, where she also directed Industry Minister Ryosei Akazawa to further expand alternative crude procurement starting July.
She said the government would not proceed with an additional release of state oil reserves this month, citing ongoing progress in diversifying supply sources.
Japan planned to import crude oil in June from regions including Africa, the United States, Latin America, and Central Asia as part of efforts to reduce reliance on the Middle East.
The administration has been seeking to stabilize energy supply amid global market uncertainties and geopolitical tensions affecting major producing regions.
In a separate matter, the government announced it would begin accepting applications from medical institutions starting Monday for the distribution of 5,000 stockpiled pairs of medical gloves.
The protective equipment release was part of a previously announced measure to support healthcare facilities.
Officials said the initiative formed part of broader efforts to manage strategic reserves while responding to domestic supply needs.