Escalating tensions in the Middle East have left the Strait of Hormuz nearly blocked, once again exposing the vulnerability of Japan's import-dependent economy. About 80% of Japan's naphtha — the main raw material for producing plastics — is imported from the Middle East.
In light of this situation, analysts are calling on Japan to urgently reduce its use of single-use plastics, in order to cut dependence on imported materials that are susceptible to geopolitical shocks. Switching to alternative materials and promoting a circular economy are seen as long-term strategic solutions.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital sea lane through which a large volume of crude oil and liquefied gas from Persian Gulf states is shipped to global markets. Any disruption there directly impacts Japan's raw material supply chain, given the country's severe lack of natural resources.
