Japan’s crude oil imports dropped to 4.07 million kilolitres in April, the lowest level in years due to regional supply constraints.
Japan’s crude oil imports fell 66% year-over-year in April to 4.07 million kilolitres, or roughly 850,000 barrels per day, as Middle East supply disruptions weighed on shipments. The decline marks a sharp contraction from April 2025 levels, according to government data released Friday.
The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry reported that imports from the Middle East, which previously accounted for over 90% of Japan’s crude supply, collapsed amid ongoing regional tensions. Prior months had shown smaller declines, but April’s drop reflects heightened vulnerability in energy supply chains.
Markets are monitoring the impact on refining margins and inventory levels as Japan adjusts to reduced crude availability.