Japan's Plastic Crisis: Naphtha Shortage Hits Daily Life

Japan is experiencing a significant shortage of plastic bags, trays, and gloves, affecting daily life across the nation. This scarcity stems from a lack of naphtha, a crucial component derived from crude oil sourced primarily from the Middle East. The food sector, a major consumer of plastics, is particularly hard-hit, with some businesses already offering customer incentives for using personal reusable containers.

Production of polyethylene, used in common shopping and garbage bags, saw a sharp 62% decline in March compared to 2025, according to the Japan Petrochemical Industry Association. While the government describes the issue as a supply bottleneck, industry leaders warn of escalating problems throughout June. This situation is putting pressure on Japan's service culture, which often involves extensive plastic packaging.

Examples of the impact are evident in Kawasaki, where a supermarket manager is rationing produce bags, and in Kofu City, where a delica is rewarding customers who bring their own containers. Even municipal waste collection systems are affected, with panic buying of designated rubbish bags leading to purchase restrictions. Similar shortages are being reported across East Asia, including South Korea and Taiwan, highlighting a broader regional challenge.

Taiwan, a significant importer of Middle Eastern crude oil, has seen wholesale plastic prices surge by up to 40% this year. Governments in affected East Asian nations are urging calm and monitoring for potential profiteering amid the ongoing supply chain disruptions.