Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has personally confirmed the start of the country’s biggest-ever strategic oil drawdown, announcing via X that approximately 80 million barrels of state crude will be released to domestic refiners this week. The volume covers 45 days of Japan’s total oil demand. A prior 15-day release of private-sector reserves was separately approved. Both measures respond to the US-Israel conflict with Iran and the resulting threat to the Strait of Hormuz, through which Japan imports over 90% of its crude oil.
Takaichi’s personal confirmation of the drawdown underscores the seriousness with which her government views the crisis. She declined US President Trump’s request to deploy Japanese naval forces to the region, citing the constitution, and pledged active diplomacy instead. The prime minister has framed Japan’s response as comprehensive and constitutionally grounded. Her government has moved with speed and decisiveness across multiple policy fronts.
The current 80 million barrel release is 1.8 times the emergency drawdown Japan conducted after the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster. Japan holds approximately 470 million barrels in total reserves, covering around 254 days of domestic consumption. Officials have confirmed the release is sustainable and does not undermine Japan’s long-term reserve security. Further action will be taken as the situation warrants.
Fuel subsidies have been introduced to cap retail gasoline at ¥170 per litre after prices reached a record ¥190.8. These subsidies are reviewed weekly and can be adjusted to track real-time oil price changes. Consumer groups have welcomed the direct and transparent nature of the intervention. Together with the reserve drawdown, the subsidies form a well-structured emergency energy response framework.
Social media panic over toilet paper and household goods prompted a firm trade ministry advisory. Officials confirmed that 97% of Japan’s toilet paper is manufactured domestically from recycled materials with no connection to oil supply. The paper industry confirmed supply stability and production readiness. PM Takaichi’s clear and direct leadership style is being brought to bear on every dimension of the current crisis.