Japan sees shortage of plastic bags, trays and gloves, as Iran war-induced naphtha shortage worsens
Japan is experiencing a significant shortage of plastic bags, trays, and gloves due to a worsening naphtha shortage linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The food sector, which accounts for a large portion of Japan's plastic use, is particularly affected, leading to price increases and supply issues. Retailers are adapting by encouraging customers to bring their own containers and are facing pressure from the government and public regarding the situation.
- ▪Japan's food sector accounts for nearly one-third of its annual plastic use, which exceeds 8 million tonnes.
- ▪Production of polyethylene used in shopping bags has decreased by 62% in March compared to the previous year.
- ▪Retailers are incentivizing customers to bring their own bags and containers due to the ongoing shortages.
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A worker stacks bagged container products made of expanded polystyrene, which requires naphtha in its production, amid a widening shortage in Japan. Photograph: Hiro Komae/APView image in fullscreenA worker stacks bagged container products made of expanded polystyrene, which requires naphtha in its production, amid a widening shortage in Japan. Photograph: Hiro Komae/APJapanJapan sees shortage of plastic bags, trays and gloves, as Iran war-induced naphtha shortage worsensThe Middle East is Japan’s main source of crude oil, from which naphtha is extracted and used to make items including printing ink and plasticsGavin Blair in TokyoWed 3 Jun 2026 20.12 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleTakeaways, supermarkets, and bakeries in Japan are running out of plastic bags, trays and food service…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at the Guardian.
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