The United States has announced measures to ban the import of Russian crude oil and other products as additional economic sanctions on Russia, which continues its military invasion.
On the other hand, there is a widespread view within the government that it may be difficult for Japan to stop importing immediately from the perspective of energy security.
On the 8th, US President Joe Biden signed a presidential decree banning the import of energy such as crude oil, natural gas and coal from Russia.
The United Kingdom has also announced that it will phase out imports of Russian crude oil, keeping pace with the United States.
Japan depends on imports for most of its crude oil, and according to JOGMEC "Japan Oil, Gas and Metals and Mineral Resources Organization", imports from Russia accounted for 3.6% of the total last year.
Japan is aiming to reduce its dependence on the Middle East and diversify its energy procurement in the wake of the economic impact of the 1970s oil crisis, but the percentage of dependence on the Middle East is still over 90%. ..
Although the import ratio of Russian crude oil is not high, there is a widespread view within the government that it may be difficult to stop imports immediately from the viewpoint of energy security.
However, depending on the situation of Russia's military invasion of Ukraine, cooperation with the United States and other countries may be required, and the government is considering a response.
Prime Minister Kishida "closely interacting with the United States"
Prime Minister Kishida told reporters that President Biden of the United States has announced that he will take measures to ban the import of crude oil from Russia, saying, "We are in close contact with the United States yesterday. At the press conference, "We are proceeding with this measure, knowing that many of our allies are not in a position to participate. The United States is a net exporter of energy, and we can do this even if other countries cannot." I have stated. "
He added, "In light of this situation, Japan would like to work firmly in cooperation with the international community, including the G7 = seven major countries, with stable supply and security as national interests."
Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno "Continuing to work to increase production in oil-producing countries"
Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno said at a press conference in the afternoon, "Crude oil prices continue to rise due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and there are concerns about the impact on corporate activities and livelihoods. Originally, we will promptly promote the release of private stocks and continue to work on oil-producing countries to increase production. "
On that basis, he said, "In order to protect the foundation of the international order, we need to act decisively. It is inevitable that various influences will be exerted on the people and Japanese companies, but for this major purpose, it will be applied to the Ukrainian people. I want you to understand the importance of acting to show solidarity. "
Also, in connection with the EU-European Union's announcement of a policy to break away from the situation where nearly half of natural gas imports depended on Russia by 2030, "The source of energy from overseas is specific. We will work harder than ever to import from various countries without depending on the region. "
On top of that, energy stability will be achieved through all means, such as encouraging oil-producing and gas-producing countries to increase production, actively investing in development that leads to diversification of suppliers, and securing safe alternative transportation routes in an emergency. I want to maintain the supply. "