The "naphtha crisis" in Japan spreads, impacting multiple industries

Approximately 80% of Japan’s naphtha supply depends on the Middle East. Due to shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a “naphtha crisis” is spreading in Japan. According to a shop owner in Tokyo’s Taito Ward, some products such as plastic wrap and plastic bags have been out of stock for over a month, mainly due to issues related to Japan’s naphtha supply. Naphtha is a core raw material for the manufacturing and chemical industries, and its derivatives are widely used in the production of plastics, synthetic fibers, synthetic rubber, surfactants, and printing ink solvents. (CCTV News)