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Japan to Unilaterally Release 80 Million Barrels Amid War

3/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Japan will release 80 million barrels from its strategic reserves starting March 16, 2026, in a unilateral move by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to offset the ongoing Middle East war.
The action uses 15 days of private reserves and a month of national reserves.
Japan faces supply disruptions as Strait of Hormuz shipments are nearly halted.
The release aligns with the International Energy Agency's plan to release 400 million barrels.

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Story summary

Japan will release 80 million barrels from its strategic reserves starting March 16, 2026, in a unilateral move by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to offset the ongoing Middle East war.
The action uses 15 days of private reserves and a month of national reserves.
Japan faces supply disruptions as Strait of Hormuz shipments are nearly halted.
The release aligns with the International Energy Agency's plan to release 400 million barrels.