Japan Faces Plastic Shortage Due to Middle East Naphtha Crisis
Japan is experiencing a significant shortage of plastic bags, trays, and gloves due to a naphtha shortage caused by the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. Naphtha, a key ingredient in plastic production, is primarily sourced from the Middle East, which is Japan's main supplier of crude oil. The shortage is affecting various sectors, particularly the food industry, which accounts for nearly one-third of Japan's annual plastic use. Retailers are responding by offering incentives for customers to bring their own bags and containers. The shortage has also impacted municipal waste collection systems, which rely on specific plastic bags for waste separation. Panic buying has exacerbated the situation, leading to sales restrictions. The Japanese government has described the issue as a supply bottleneck, but industry leaders warn that the situation may worsen. 
