Japan imports Russian oil after Hormuz disruption

May 3 (Asia Today) -- Japan is set to import Russian crude oil for the first time since disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting a shift toward energy security despite ongoing sanctions against Moscow.

A tanker carrying Russian crude from the Sakhalin-2 project is expected to arrive Monday in Imabari, Ehime Prefecture, according to Yomiuri Shimbun. It marks the first such import since the key Middle East shipping route became effectively blocked due to regional tensions.

The oil was procured by Japanese refiner Taiyo Oil and will be processed at its Shikoku facility. Shipping data show the tanker departed Sakhalin in late April.

The key factor is that the Sakhalin-2 project is not subject to Western sanctions imposed after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The project produces liquefied natural gas and condensate-type crude known as "Sakhalin Blend," which Japan has long considered a critical non-Middle East energy source.

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Japan has maintained stakes in Sakhalin-1 and Sakhalin-2 projects as part of efforts to diversify supply. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has described Sakhalin energy as vital to reducing dependence on Middle Eastern imports.

Balancing sanctions and energy security

Japan's move reflects a pragmatic balance between supporting Western sanctions and securing stable energy supplies.

Following the disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, Japan has sought alternative sources, including U.S. crude and diversified naphtha imports. The addition of Sakhalin-2 oil further reduces reliance on Middle Eastern supply routes.

Japan depends on the Middle East for roughly 90% of its crude imports, making it highly vulnerable to disruptions in the region. A prolonged blockage would impact not only fuel prices but also petrochemicals, plastics, automotive production and logistics costs.

Officials view the move not as a departure from sanctions policy but as use of an existing exemption. Japan has argued that halting Sakhalin oil shipments could also disrupt LNG production, which is essential to its energy mix.

Implications for South Korea

The development carries implications for South Korea, which also relies heavily on Middle Eastern crude and is deeply integrated into global petrochemical supply chains.

A disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could affect costs, production schedules and export competitiveness across key industries, including refining, petrochemicals, automobiles and electronics.

Unlike Japan, however, South Korea has limited direct access to Russian energy projects and must navigate alliance considerations and domestic opinion.

Analysts say South Korea should focus on strengthening strategic reserves and diversifying supply sources, including imports from the United States, Latin America and Southeast Asia, while securing alternative supply chains for naphtha and petrochemical feedstocks.

Japan's decision underscores a broader reality: In times of energy crisis, supply stability often takes precedence over political considerations.

- Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI© Asia Today. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution prohibited.