Japan has accepted its initial consignment of oil from Russia since the global supplies were disrupted by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which occurred at the start of the Iran war.

According to reports, a tanker carrying crude from the Sakhalin-2 natural gas development project arrived off Imabari in western Japan on Monday.

This move comes as Japan seeks to diversify its energy sources due to its heavy reliance on Middle Eastern imports, which has been impacted by the ongoing conflict.

The Sakhalin-2 project is not subject to global economic sanctions against Russia imposed after its invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

The crude will be refined into gasoline, naphtha, and other petroleum products, potentially easing the pressure on Japan's energy market.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi acknowledged that the global oil supply squeeze is significantly affecting the Asia-Pacific region and emphasized the urgency for secure energy supplies.

Approximately 20% of the world’s oil typically passes through the Strait of Hormuz, with its closure leading to a surge in oil prices.

This development also signifies Japan's re-engagement with Russia, which has strained since Tokyo joined global sanctions against Moscow due to the Ukraine conflict.