economy
May 9, 2026
FACTBOX: What is known about Japan’s recent purchase of Russian oil
The purchase was made as part of efforts to diversify import sources, Idemitsu clarified
TL;DR
- Idemitsu purchased Russian crude oil from Sakhalin to diversify import sources.
- The purchase occurred amid rising tensions around Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
- Imports from Sakhalin-2 are approved by the U.S. and do not violate sanctions, as they are tied to LNG supply contracts.
- The tanker Voyager delivered Sakhalin Blend crude oil to Japan.
- Japan had previously banned Russian oil imports after February 2022 but made exceptions for certain Sakhalin-2 shipments.