Asia Redraws Energy Security Map Amid Fears of Strait of Hormuz Closure

"Al-Eqtisadiah" from Riyadh

Sunday, July 5, 2026 19:22 | 1 minute read

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Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have once again highlighted the fragility of Asia's energy security, as the continent relies on the Gulf for about 60% of its oil imports, with the bulk passing through the strait, one of the world's most important energy chokepoints.

Japan is the most dependent on Middle Eastern oil, importing about 95% of its crude needs from the region, while South Korea relies on the Gulf for about 70% of its oil imports.

India gets 55% of its oil and nearly two-thirds of its LNG imports from Gulf countries, while China imports about half of its crude needs and a third of its LNG from the Middle East.

These factors have prompted Asian countries to accelerate energy source diversification plans: India is expanding its strategic reserves, Japan is upgrading its refineries to process crude from different markets, and Indonesia and Malaysia are increasing reliance on biofuels, alongside growing investments in renewable energy and US gas.

During the crisis, China was the least affected due to its large reserves and extensive investments in clean energy, while other Asian countries had to seek alternative supplies to avoid disruptions.

These moves confirm that the concept of energy security in Asia is no longer limited to securing oil supplies but is now based on diversifying import sources, strengthening strategic reserves, and reducing dependence on any single maritime corridor in preparation for future crises.

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