Japan April Oil Imports Hit Lowest Since 1962 Amid Hormuz Crisis
π’οΈ TOKYO β A 64-year import low exposes how far the Hormuz shock has travelled from the Gulf. π LOOK CLOSER: Japan draws ~90% of its crude via Hormuz. April's collapse to 1962 levels means industrial rationing is no longer theoretical. Tokyo's energy stress removes a key US ally's diplomatic flexibility β Japan needs a deal more than it can afford to pressure Washington. Asian demand destruction now compounds Saudi price cuts, eroding Iran's leverage narrative further.