Japanese shipping companies have suspended operations in the Persian Gulf as the military conflict in Iran intensifies. Nippon Yusen KK has temporarily halted vessels from travelling through the Strait of Hormuz, a spokesperson confirmed.
According to Bloomberg, Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha Ltd. has told its ships in the region to remain on standby, while Mitsui OSK Line Ltd. has instructed its vessels to stay in safe waters.
Oil tankers are increasingly avoiding the narrow Strait of Hormuz, with Iranian media describing the passage as “practically closed.” The United States has also issued warnings, advising ships to stay at least 30 nautical miles away from its military assets in the Persian Gulf and Arabian Sea.
Japan depends on the Middle East for about 90% of its crude oil imports. So far, refiners report no disruptions.
An Idemitsu Kosan Co. spokesperson stated supplies to Japan remained unaffected as of Saturday night, adding, “The situation is changing rapidly, and we are monitoring it closely.” Cosmo Energy Holdings Co. similarly confirmed there were no immediate issues with crude oil supply.
Additionally, the conflict is affecting air travel. Japan Airlines has cancelled six flights between Haneda Airport and Doha through March 3, affecting around 1,000 passengers.
