Key facts
- Japanese imports of Chinese plastic and chemical materials have surged.
- The increase in imports is linked to the U.S.-Iran war.
- Mitsui Chemicals operates an ethylene plant in Takaishi, Japan.
Soaring Japanese imports of Chinese plastic and chemical materials, driven by the U.S.-Iran war, have triggered alarm among domestic suppliers. The conflict has disrupted global supply chains, leading to increased reliance on Chinese products. Japan's Mitsui Chemicals group operates an ethylene plant in the city of Takaishi. The situation has contributed to Japan flipping to a net importer of petrochemicals, largely due to a surge in naphtha prices.