05.05.2026 08:11
Japan received its first oil shipment from Russia after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz following the Iran war. This development sends a message that supply to global markets has not been entirely cut off and is considered a critical step that could limit the rise in energy prices.
With the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to the Japan-Iran war, Japan received its first oil shipment from Russia. The development was seen as an important signal that the tightening in global energy supply could be overcome.
TANKER REACHES IMBARI COAST
According to reports in the Japanese press, including TV Tokyo and Asahi Shimbun, the tanker carrying crude oil produced under the Sakhalin-2 natural gas project reached the coast of Imabari in western Japan on Monday. The shipment was attributed to officials from wholesaler Taiyo Oil.
STRATEGIC REQUEST FROM THE GOVERNMENT
According to reports, Japan's Ministry of Economy requested Taiyo Oil to accept the oil in question. Company officials could not be reached for comment on the matter.
TO BE SENT TO REFINERY
The delivered crude oil is planned to be sent to a refinery and converted into gasoline, naphtha, and various petroleum products. Naphtha is widely used in the production of plastics, chemical fibers, and paints.
SEEKING A NEW BALANCE IN ENERGY SUPPLY
The disruptions in global oil shipments caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz have directed energy-import-dependent countries like Japan toward alternative sources. This shipment drew attention as the first such supply since the beginning of the war.
CRITICAL MESSAGE FOR MARKETS
According to experts, Japan's ability to procure oil from Russia sends a message to global markets that "supply has not completely stopped." This situation is considered capable of limiting the rise in oil prices and partially reducing the panic atmosphere in energy markets.