Media: Japanese government to allocate billions to help allies purchase oil

The Japanese government plans to allocate around $10 billion to countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for purchasing oil to support the production of medical supplies, according to NHK, citing sources.

As the broadcaster reports, Tokyo is interested in maintaining manufacturing capacity in the region and ensuring stable supplies of medical products, including items used for dialysis and medical gloves. The funding is expected to be channelled through the Japan Bank for International Cooperation.

The announcement is expected to be made by Prime Minister Sanae Takachi on April 15 during the online “Asia Zero Emission Community” summit.

In addition, Japan plans to share its experience with ASEAN partners in building strategic oil reserves. The country began accumulating such reserves in 1978, and as of the end of December 2025, they amounted to about 470 million barrels — enough for approximately 254 days of consumption.

Interest in Japan’s experience is driven by its heavy reliance on crude oil imports, with more than 90% of supplies coming from the Middle East.

By Vugar Khalilov