World Business Report Japan hints at talks with Iran as Middle East tension grows
Apr 6, 2026
Adrienne Murray, BBC reporter covering Finland's icebreaker industry. Seijiro Takeshita, management professor on Japan’s heavy Middle East oil dependence. They discuss possible leadership talks with Iran, risks to Japan’s energy security, Arctic geopolitics and new US-ordered icebreakers built in Finland. Short, timely and globally minded.
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Japan's Oil Vulnerability To Strait Of Hormuz
- Japan depends on the Middle East for 94% of its crude oil, with 75% transiting the Strait of Hormuz, making supply disruptions existential for energy-intensive industries.
- Seijiro Takeshita explains semiconductors and precision machinery need stable energy and can't easily switch to wind or solar.
Reserve Releases Only Delay Deeper Economic Impact
- Government releases of reserves have temporarily stabilised prices, but broader oil-related products and chemicals create delayed economic impacts.
- Takeshita warns these are like boxing body blows that take time to hit manufacturing and chemicals sectors.
Balance Energy Talks With Security Alliances
- Balance diplomatic ties with strategic suppliers without provoking key security partners when securing energy imports.
- Takeshita highlights Japan's dilemma: courting Iran for oil while hosting about 130 U.S. bases complicates policy choices.