Japan turns to Canadian crude as Asia feels Hormuz supply pinch
Japan is increasing imports of Canadian crude oil via the Trans Mountain pipeline to diversify its energy supply following disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. This shift comes as regional tensions and a war on Iran have significantly impacted traditional oil shipping routes to Asia.
Why it matters
The move highlights a major shift in global energy trade routes and supply chain security as Asian nations react to geopolitical instability in the Middle East.
Uncertainty over crude oil supplies via the Strait of Hormuz is pushing Asian states towards Canada’s TMX crude oil.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info A drone view of the terminus of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada [Chris Helgren/Reuters] By DPA and Reuters Published On 30 Jul 2026 30 Jul 2026 The first shipment of Canadian crude oil since 2025 is headed to Japan on a ship chartered by Exxon Mobil, according to data released by tracking firm Kpler.
The Marshall Islands-flagged vessel, Freedom Glory, which can carry up to 750,000 barrels of crude, left Vancouver on Wednesday, loaded with Trans Mountain pipeline (TMX) crude.
The latest oil shipment from TMX Canada was bought by Japan’s largest refiner Eneos, according to Kpler.
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