Japan Sticks to Russian Oil Imports Amid Western Sanctions Pressure

Japan's oil imports from Sakhalin fields in Russia have continued despite pressure from Western sanctions, with Tokyo prioritizing its energy supply. The strategic proximity of Russian resources has become crucial for Japan as shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz face instability.

In early 2026, Japan imported approximately 1.53 million barrels of oil from the Sakhalin-2 project at an average price of $103 per barrel, with total expenditures exceeding $157 million.

The primary buyers are Taiyo Oil, Idemitsu Kosan, and ENEOS, which use Russian crude to diversify their portfolios. According to Kuniya Asamoto, a representative of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), these supplies are vital for the Sakhalin-2 project, which provides a significant portion of Japan's liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports.

The U.S. is increasing pressure by threatening 100% tariffs on countries that ignore price caps or maintain active trade with Russia, leaving the Japanese government to balance loyalty to Washington against domestic economic stability.