Japan anticipates a reduction in oil imports for the upcoming month compared to the current month. The country's economy minister stated that imports are projected to be 80% of the 2025 monthly average. This adjustment is a consequence of rerouting tanker traffic away from the Bab el-Mandeb Strait due to Houthi threats. Journeys to Japan via the Suez Canal are significantly longer, taking 55 days instead of 23. Japan has no plans to release additional crude oil from its strategic reserves. However, existing reserve releases that haven't been fully utilized can still cover a month's average supply from last year. Previously, Japan announced a release of 80 million barrels in March to address Middle Eastern supply disruptions. The nation historically relies heavily on Middle Eastern oil, with up to 95% of imports coming from the region. To mitigate this vulnerability, Japan has been diversifying its crude oil sources. This diversification strategy has unfortunately led to record-high import bills for the country.