Japan has decided to release part of its national oil reserves starting May 1 to address supply disruptions caused by the ongoing Middle East crisis that has affected crude oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry announced the decision on Friday, stating that efforts are underway to secure oil through alternative routes.

According to the ministry, the release will amount to roughly 5.8 million kiloliters of oil, equivalent to about 20 days of national demand, valued at approximately 540 billion yen (around 3.38 billion US dollars). Japan expects to source more than half of its crude oil from alternative suppliers by May compared to last year, which would help maintain stable supply through the end of the year while limiting the need for further reserve releases.

The ministry said the move is being carried out under Article 31 of the Petroleum Stockpiling Act to ensure stable energy supply. As one of the world’s largest oil importers, Japan remains vulnerable to instability in the Hormuz Strait region, which poses a significant risk to its energy security.