Prime Minister Takaichi stated on Thursday that the government anticipates supplies of naphtha-derived chemical products will be maintained beyond the end of the year, addressing concerns amid ongoing Middle East tensions.
Speaking at a cabinet-level meeting on the Middle East situation, the prime minister outlined the government's assessment of supply chain stability for key industrial materials. Naphtha, a crude oil derivative, is essential for producing plastics, synthetic fibers, and other petrochemical goods.
"We have confirmed that the supply of naphtha-derived chemical products can continue into next year," Takaichi told reporters after the meeting. The assessment comes as Japan monitors disruptions to global energy and chemical trade routes linked to regional instability.
The government is coordinating with industry and international partners to mitigate potential shortages. No immediate restrictions on consumer goods were announced.