Tokyo: Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Tuesday instructed related ministers to ensure stable supplies of medical goods made from petroleum products.
According to Philippines News Agency, Takaichi urged industry minister Ryosei Akazawa and health minister Kenichiro Ueno to expedite measures, including the procurement of alternative products, by collaborating with medical businesses. This directive was issued during the second meeting of related ministers on the Middle East situation, held at the prime minister's office.
The government has established a working group within the Cabinet Secretariat to thoroughly examine the supply situation of medical goods and implement necessary actions. This initiative is supervised by Akazawa, who has been tasked with securing stable supplies of critical goods. Takaichi emphasized the importance of protecting citizens' lives and livelihoods, indicating that the government will explore concrete solutions to address the situation.
Bureau chief-level officials from relevant government organizations will be part of this working group. The urgency comes as Iran has effectively blockaded the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil transport chokepoint. With Japan importing over 90 percent of its crude oil from the Middle East, there are rising concerns about potential disruptions in the supply of not only fuel but also oil-derived products like naphtha, which is essential for plastics production.
