Japan says no impact on oil supply after Saudi attacks

TOKYO, Sept 17 (KUNA) -- Japan's industry minister said Tuesday that no immediate disruption to the country's oil supply following weekend attacks on Saudi Arabia's oil production facilities, but hinted possible measures if needed.
"I do not see so far there is an impact on our crude procurement, and Japan has oil reserves for more than 230 days of domestic consumption," Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Isshu Sugawara told a press conference.
"We will closely monitor any possible impact on our oil supply, as well as movements in the oil market. If necessary, the government would release some of oil reserves and take other measures to ensure sufficient supplies, in cooperation with the International Energy Agency and other countries," said Sugawara.
Japan is the world's third-biggest oil consumer after China and the US, heavily relying on Saudi Arabia for its crude imports. On Saturday, the Saudi government announced that crude oil facilities in Abqaiq and Khurais in Eastern Province suffered terror attacks by drones, which cut the kingdom's oil output in half. The Yemeni Shiite Houthi rebels issued a statement that they had carried out the attacks. (end) mk.gta