Japanese PM calls on taskforce to ensure stable supply of oil products

Japan’s Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae has instructed a newly launched government taskforce to ensure stable supplies of oil-related products amid the Middle East conflict.

The government held a meeting of relevant Cabinet ministers at the Prime Minister’s Office on Tuesday morning. The ministers were briefed on Japan’s diplomatic efforts in bringing the conflict under control. The government’s efforts to address the economic impact at home were also reported on.

These included the release of oil stockpiles and using subsidies to keep the price of gasoline, diesel and heavy oil from rising. Takaichi said she hopes that the government will secure sufficient amounts of crude oil and oil products that will be needed across Japan. She added that she hopes to seek diversified procurement sources.