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Sakhalin exception: The Russian energy Japan can't quit

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By Etienne BALMER

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Wise decision from Japan. You have to understand all the constraint Japan is under, do it has to find a balance.

0 ( +18 / -18 )

"There is every reason to think that they could also manipulate exports from the Sakhalin projects to retaliate against Japan."

Russia, and especially Putin's Russia have long shown they cannot be trusted.

Japan is in this situation because Japan, Inc. have for decades kept the country reliant on burning huge amounts of fossil fuels got from foreign nations, and also on nuclear power: how are things at Fukushima these days? How many billions more will be spent trying to fix things there? Why wasn't that money used to retrofit infrastructure and develop alternatives to burning huge amounts of fossil fuels?

4 ( +20 / -16 )

Taking the moral high ground and refusing Russian energy won’t stop you freezing to death in Japan’s cold winter,will it?

-13 ( +10 / -23 )

Japanese families shouldn't have their heating bills go up to pay for geopolitical rivalries. 

Only a minority of countries have actually joined the sanctions against Russia.

Most have realized that neutrality, open diplomacy and taking a pro-peace stance is the way to go.

Japan is finally taking a stand against the war mongers in Washington

It's looking like Nazi Russia is on a path to exceed the crimes of Nazi Germany. If countries want to look the other way for a quick buck, that is their prerogative, but no one will forget who was on the wrong side of history and was complicit.

2 ( +11 / -9 )

Why so so late Japan? Almost one year after Vladymir Putin's invasion of Ukraine ! But and, this is a big BUT, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan, better late than never, eh?

-10 ( +6 / -16 )

There are 195 countries in the world. Only 32 have signed up to any sanctions against Russia, and most, if not all are "breaking" the sanctions by importing Russian oil or gas via third parties or in some cases directly. China, India and other non vassal states to the US are not imposing extra costs on its citizens to appease NATO war mongering.

-5 ( +14 / -19 )

The US doesn't let its vassals walk away from dealing with the enemies. The EU was forced to sanction Russia, while Japan and South Korea were granted an exception.

Simply, Japan and South Korea are forced to buy worthless US treasury assets. That's why they're exempt from sanctioning Russia.

Things will shift once the war in Taiwan starts around this year or next year.

-25 ( +5 / -30 )

"You can only afford to be moral when you have a pragmatic solution."

The same is true for Germany and the others. They chose to take a moral stand for the good of all.

3 ( +8 / -5 )

@awagaijinHaving morals isn't a priority for kishida and his government - obviously

Re having morals, start wth Russia invading a sovereign nation destroying civilian infrastructure, Russian armies many of whom are convicts robbing, raping and murdering civilians, show Kishida in comparison is a saint, and Russia and its ROC are the ones having no morals.

7 ( +12 / -5 )

Japan needs to increase its import of Sakhalin LNG.

-7 ( +4 / -11 )

Japanese need the crude for driving their Toyotas Hybrid cars that they love so much while the world is going towards electrification and renewable energy....Japan once was the future now is representing the past in the future and its been and will be stuck there for the eternity...

We heat our house with electricity and it has gone up way more than gasolline, or the kerosene we use in our water heater. If more people drove electric cars, the pinch on electricity would be even greater and the price would go up more.

Toyotas hybrids do more with the same amount of fuel. They ease the situation, while remaining part of the problem.

3 ( +6 / -3 )

From this month the government will subsidise 20% of power and gas bills. Just got our electric bill, ¥14,000 about ¥3,000 more than the same month last year.

9 ( +11 / -2 )

Russia is Japan's closest neighbour, a supplier of energy and other products. As such, it is not smart for Japan to bow down to the rogue state of the USA and support sanctions against Russia. It would be very easy for them to retaliate, best to be friends and maybe even allies.

-8 ( +7 / -15 )

when common sense prevails

-6 ( +4 / -10 )

Japan can quit but at this time, much to the consternation of Japan's excellent US "ally", doesn't want to commit economic hara-kiri.

-6 ( +5 / -11 )

sovereign nation destroying civilian infrastructure, Russian armies many of whom are convicts robbing, raping and murdering civilians, show Kishida in comparison is a saint, and Russia and its ROC are the ones having no morals.

What a nonsense u are carrying! Marazmatique nonsense...Let Russia and Ukraine sort out the things themselves...without ignorants

-9 ( +4 / -13 )

We live in the mountains and pretty much everyone has seen their electricity bill go up over at least 10,000 in Jan (for December usage). Some of this is to stop pipes freezing, so economizing is not an option. We have a big house and I work from home, so our bill went up 25000 yen off despite using less. The government will be subsidizing electricity by 7 yen a unit from next month, but that's all taxpayer printed money. One consequence of economic measures and high international prices is more national debt for Japan. Like it or not, your taxes or debt issued to you is helping to pay peoples' bills.

5 ( +8 / -3 )

China, India and other non vassal states to the US are not imposing extra costs on its citizens to appease NATO war mongering.

Only one country started an illegal war in 2022 that I know of.

13 ( +19 / -6 )

Japan is funding Russia's war and enabling Putin's oppressive rule. Japan as an ally of USA, she is obligatory to do whatever and whenever Washington demand them to do. Does Japan knows there are already a dozen of American/British volunteers has died in Ukraine killed by the Russians? They were saving your lives!

China made it clear they buy Russian oil is they hate US in their bones, straight forward,honest and without faking. Japan said she will help sanction Russia but in fact doing business with them.That was dishonestly and despicable!

-12 ( +1 / -13 )

If I had to bet, I'd bet on future history being written in Chinese and not in English (and certainly not in Japanese).

Then you are betting on a country that is growing old before rich, has never been a world power, and has no claim to represent a free market. Best of luck!

12 ( +15 / -3 )

What a nonsense u are carrying! Marazmatique nonsense...Let Russia and Ukraine sort out the things themselves...without ignorants

That's exactly what the west is doing. We are making sure it will be fair fight, though. Ignorant Russia needs to try reading books instead of burning them.

4 ( +9 / -5 )

Sakhalin exception: The Russian energy Japan can't quit

And why would they? Cuz of some US Democratic Party obsession with Russia willing to risk the human existence because of Hillary?

Some folks really enjoy Fantasy Island.

invalid CSRF

-6 ( +4 / -10 )

And why would they? Cuz of some US Democratic Party obsession with Russia willing to risk the human existence because of Hillary?

"I asked him and he said it's not Russia". Only one party elected a traitor to the presidency and it's not the Democrats.

2 ( +7 / -5 )

kohakuebisu

so our bill went up 25000 yen off despite using less.

That's more than 700 kWh. What are you doing with it?

5 ( +7 / -2 )

The nature of Russia’s unprovoked invasion is so brutal and cynical and nasty that countries have no choice but to sever ties with Russia. Of course it’s a deeply uncomfortable situation to be in, with energy bills rising, but as a human being, there is simply no other way to act. You can’t look on and explain it away with silly thoughts like ‘ wars happen’. This one is unprecedented in its implications - That it is waged by a super power who had openly said it seeks to destroy us. To not act is to lose.

4 ( +9 / -5 )

Wallace,the production fell to 10 percent capacity after Exxon left, Japanese do not know how drill oil like Exxon Google Sakhalin Oil Production Shortfall

-3 ( +2 / -5 )

That's more than 700 kWh.

Heating. We actually used less than the year before. The average temp here in December was about -0.5C. 700 kWh is the same energy as 70 litres of kerosene or one and a half fillups in a small gasoline car. In our case, the electricity went in an air con, which as a heat pump probably produced 1800 to 2000kWh of heat from that electricity consumption. They get less efficient subzero.

Its not uncommon where I live for folks to use 1.5 to 2 cans of kero a day. Over 700 liters a month.

1 ( +3 / -2 )

It is ironic that nobody here has expressed a willingness to pay MORE for their heating and fuel because that is what would happen if Russia wasn’t supplying fuel into your homes in Japan right now!

0 ( +4 / -4 )

kohakuebisuToday 09:57 am JST

That's more than 700 kWh.

Heating. We actually used less than the year before. The average temp here in December was about -0.5C. 700 kWh is the same energy as 70 litres of kerosene or one and a half fillups in a small gasoline car. In our case, the electricity went in an air con, which as a heat pump probably produced 1800 to 2000kWh of heat from that electricity consumption. They get less efficient subzero.

Its not uncommon where I live for folks to use 1.5 to 2 cans of kero a day. Over 700 liters a month.

Are you heating every room 24/7? We lived in the mountains in Nagano for 10 years and never used that much power. In fact, we never had AC units. Was -20C in winter.

The cost of kerosene is now about Y120/liter. 700kWh Y25,000. 70 liters of kerosene ¥8,400.

The government will subsidise power and gas but not kerosene.

Anyway, I agree it has become too expensive. Wood burning stove would be better.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

Wallace,have you heard of a central air and heating unit,that cool and heat your house efficient year round

-6 ( +1 / -7 )

Japan doesn't need to feel guilty. Europe has simply switched from a dependency upon energy from a Russian dictator to a dependency upon energy from Middle Eastern dictators. So now they can be rude about Russia but are silent about abuses in the Middle East - butchered journalists and atrocities in Yemen that are worse than anything in Ukraine. They largely ignored Putin's carpet-bombing of Syrians, who presumably don't count as much as Ukrainians. Turkey bought most of NATO off from supporting Kurds with its policy of limiting migration to the EU and allowing the use of its airbases. Politicians have no ethics at all, and will engage in whatever theatricals are in their own interests.

1 ( +6 / -5 )

So where should Japan get its fuel from that will not make it dependant on some other country? The USA? That place that will impose its rules on you, that will demand change if the government isn't the type of likes going so far as arranging a coup?

I saw an interview of Indian foreign minister.

The interviewer tried in a typical white man condescending way to make him look bad, inste he demolished the interviewer.

Asked why India is so close to Russia, " because in the past the west chose to arm a military dictatorship Pakistan instead of a democratic India, so we needed to look elsewhere " so the USSR and now Russia was India's only option.

Anyone thinking Japan would be better off supplying from the USA is not thinking long term or what strings are attached.

The USA raised the LNG for Europe to 4 times the domestic price. In every other venture the USA requires concessions, usually changes in laws, regulations, access, trade, that will benefit the USA but hurt Japan.

The EU is paying more so unless Japan ups it's bids it will not get fuel elsewhere.

In the rest of the world inflation is far higher than Japan eggs in the USA are at and average of over $4 a dozen. Europe is not doing well either.

42% of Germans still support the war 39% want negotiation now to end it.

38% of Americans think the economy is the biggest priority only 8% think it is the war.

Japan has navigated this mess fairly well up to now, keep the western pundits and western politics out of this country, the government of Japan was elected to serve Japanese interests not Ukraine, not the USA or the EU and UK.

We aren't having the problems Europe is so keep doing what is best for Japan.

2 ( +8 / -6 )

Europe has simply switched from a dependency upon energy from a Russian dictator to a dependency upon energy from Middle Eastern dictators.

On the one hand Western regimes denounce the Russian general public because Putin is so popular and on the other hand, say elections in Russia are a sham and Putin is a dictator...... This is very typical and they are very consistent in this kind of nonsensical rhetoric. The only question is why so many of the general public seemingly take it serious.

-4 ( +3 / -7 )

It may surprise people to know that energy cost have risen for most nations in the world due to inflation. That inflation drives up everything and since it has been 20 years or so since we had any real inflation, it comes as a major shock to some, who are used to stable prices year in and year out. This is not a "Japan only" situation and is not due to miss management.

The perfect storm of years of covid, slowdown in economies around the globe, and a major conflict in Europe between two nations that export huge amounts of food to the world, and one of them huge amounts of gas and fuel oil as well.

All of these things need to be dealt with individually in order to settle down again. Covid is being lived with, and China going through the pain of opening up and having tens of thousands dying each month as they refused western vaccines, is slowly getting back to work. The war in Europe is costing billions of dollars each week to both sides and to many donors helping Ukraine survive the invasion by Russia. The sooner Ukraine is able to repulse Russian forces and regain territorial integrity, the sooner a negotiated peace can be achieved. Until then, 98% of Europe, and many other nations around the world, sanction Russia in one way or another, in order to hamper its ability to conclude its invasion with any success. Other nations further away have issues of their own to deal with and for them a conflict in Europe is not for them to worry about.

So Japan is by no means alone dealing with power issues and inflation. The whole world is dealing with the same issues in one way or another.

2 ( +6 / -4 )

TaiwanISChina.....

Only one country started an illegal war in 2022 that I know of.

The war didn't start in Feb 2022.... Well, only the war you know about.

0 ( +5 / -5 )

This is not a "Japan only" situation and is not due to miss management.

Your right according to you it is a Ukraine only situation, the entire world needs to suffer for Ukraine.

Funny not Ethiopian, not Yemen, not all the other war just Ukraine.

Well if the USA wants to pay $4 for a dozen eggs good for them.

But here in Japan why should we, because the USA wants to impose its rule on the world.

No it isn't Russia demanding we do as it says, it isn't Russia imposing trade deals and embargoes, when was the last time you heard Russia threaten terrorists on Japanese goods if Japan didn't change its rules or permits certain things?

You are right the USA isn't invading Ukraine, but it has done as bad or worse, it sponsors coup after coup, threatens any country that will not follow sanctions on Russia, and bullies any one refusing to comply, it will cut fuel to poor countries without offering to supply at the same price, willing to permit million to starve because they cannot get Russia supplies and cannot afford western alternatives,

So Japan is just fine as it is, it doesn't need big brother EU, UK, and USA to tell the poor Asians what to do or think.

0 ( +6 / -6 )

It is much better and convenient for Japan to be friends with Russia and China than to be the lapdog of the decadent and malicious US, that pathetic loyalty can pay dearly sooner or later...

Don't forget, being an enemy of the US is risky but being US friend is deadly..

0 ( +5 / -5 )

I see people on this thread and other places say "Other countries are doing business with Russia, so why does only Japan get criticism?"

You want the answer? Because aside from the US, no other country is barking like a carnival clown and trying to use the Ukraine conflict to bolster their own standing on the international stage. The US, at the very least, follows through with their rhetoric against Russia. Japan uses words only to try to make themselves seem like they are morally superior.

Korea doesn't say much. India doesn't say much. Brazil doesn't say much. They donate here and there to Ukraine, but they don't have delusions of grandeur about becoming a world power and shouting from the rooftops about how awesome they are for helping Ukraine. That's why no one criticizes them (Except weirdo Japanese nationalists who always bring Korea into every discussion, even the most irrelevant ones).

-7 ( +4 / -11 )

JoshK

Today 11:33 am JST

And where are you from that has such integrity?

Lets see, how much is your country doing about Saudi Arabia killing 1.5 million Yemeni.

Or the conflict in Ethiopia?

The west has the audacity to criticize Japan while supplying from Saudi that has killed 1.5 million Yemeni including 15,000 children.

The west forcing poor countries in Africa to stop buying affordable fuel from Russia but not offering to help replace it without steep interest rates on borrowing money to pay the higher price, so we are looking at millions now suffering from famine but the money is going to Ukrane.

Tell us what saintly country is so much better than Japan?

1 ( +5 / -4 )

You want the answer? Because aside from the US, no other country is barking like a carnival clown and trying to use the Ukraine conflict to bolster their own standing on the international stage.

What bull.

Japan would rather stay quiet, it makes no statement until the western press and especially the USA pushes it to say something.

The only reason Japan says anything is because the USA Canada EU etc.. put them on the spot during international events giving Japan no choice but to say something.

Japan only reacts after pushed to say something publicly

The US, at the very least, follows through with their rhetoric against Russia.

Then doesn't with Saudi Arabia as it kills more Yemeni oh the USA talks about doing something then points to Russia and diverts everyone's attention.

-1 ( +4 / -5 )

And where are you from that has such integrity?

I'm American.

Lets see, how much is your country doing about Saudi Arabia killing 1.5 million Yemeni.

Or the conflict in Ethiopia?

The west has the audacity to criticize Japan while supplying from Saudi that has killed 1.5 million Yemeni including 15,000 children.

I agree. The US involved in plenty of shady dealings around the world. The difference in this Russia conflict is that the US is actually following through with their rhetoric. There is consistency between US words and actions while there are inconsistencies in Japan's.

The west forcing poor countries in Africa to stop buying affordable fuel from Russia but not offering to help replace it without steep interest rates on borrowing money to pay the higher price, so we are looking at millions now suffering from famine but the money is going to Ukrane.

I do agree it's laughable that the US asks poorer countries to sacrifice so that we can defeat Russia. We are only giving them a recommendation; it's not coercion, so it's okay.

Those other countries also don't act like a clown on the world stage like Japan is, so they don't receive criticisms.

Tell us what saintly country is so much better than Japan?

US. We aren't saintly, but we're better.

-5 ( +3 / -8 )

What bull.

Japan would rather stay quiet, it makes no statement until the western press and especially the USA pushes it to say something.

The only reason Japan says anything is because the USA Canada EU etc.. put them on the spot during international events giving Japan no choice but to say something.

Japan only reacts after pushed to say something publicly

lol... You can believe this narrative or the one that makes more sense: Japan saw an opportunity to tarnish Russia's reputation while bolstering its own to increase their international clout.

-7 ( +1 / -8 )

Yrral

Today 10:33 am JST

Wallace,have you heard of a central air and heating unit,that cool and heat your house efficient year round

Central heating isn't common in Japan.

But contrary to some here many homes are fully heated and few Japanese in northern areas still want to live in a cold paper door tatami mat house.

My in laws in Niigata have a fully insulated and heated home as to my friends in Hokkaido.

Few places get extremely cold despite the claims of certain people here.

Rikubetsu Hokkaido is ranked as Japan's coldest area. Daily mean temperature in January is −11.4 °C (11.5 °F), the average low temperature in the end of January and beginning of February are below −20 °C (−4.0 °F), which are the coldest in Japan.

As for Nagano don't believe the claims of -20°C the coldest day ever on record in the prefecture was -17°C

Nagano prefecture annual Temp in °C

January3° / -5°9 days

February5° / -4°8 days

March9° / -2°8 days

April17° / 4°7 days

May23° / 10°7 days

June26° / 15°10 days

July29° / 20°11 days

August31° / 21°9 days

September25° / 16°9 days

October19° / 9°6 days

November13° / 2°6 days

December7° / -2°7 days

-3 ( +1 / -4 )

US. We aren't saintly, but we're better.

Than what?

Brazil and Peru seems a repeat of Chile and Argentina in the 1970s.

And no the USA and CIA are up to their necks in these messes.

But look look look at Russia, look look look at Japan.

You sit there and say yes the USA does bad then just brush it all aside and continue against Japan.

Wow.

-2 ( +3 / -5 )

Japan can source it's LNG from plenty of other locations but Sakhalin is situated close to japan and the investments by Japanese companies in these projects make it a difficult situation to separate from. However, Russia has shown to be an unreliable business partner at best and a regional bully.

Japan should look for alternatives, as relying on Russia is definitely not in their long term interests.

1 ( +3 / -2 )

It is much better and convenient for Japan to be friends with Russia and China than to be the lapdog of the decadent and malicious US, that pathetic loyalty can pay dearly sooner or later...

Don't forget, being an enemy of the US is risky but being US friend is deadly..

That reads so much like a threat, be our friends or else.

also "lapdog of a decadent and malicious ", can fit any hyperbolic description you want to throw around. Not very imaginative or creative, just like the spiritual leaders of certain ethnic groups we have all had the misfortune of listening to.

1 ( +3 / -2 )

Japan can source it's LNG from plenty of other locations

Please give us a list?

I am sure the EU would like your input seeing they have been trying to find alternatives including trying to bribe Qatar into diverting LNG from Asia to Europe.

But if you know so secret the EU doesn't I am sure they will reward you for letting them know this source.

-3 ( +1 / -4 )

As for Nagano don't believe the claims of -20°C the coldest day ever on record in the prefecture was -17°C

It was just a typo. meant -2°C

You would know all about typos and spelling and grammar errors. Did it really need such a long comment? Google again I aspect.

In our Nagano house, we used kerosene and gas fires for heating. No ac. Most just use kerosene and sometimes wood burners for the bath water.

3 ( +4 / -1 )

Europe is in a transitional phase for replacing the Russian LNG and oil with alternatives as new contracts need to be arranged, but going forward and beyond the 2022/23 winter, Europe will indeed be relying less on Russian supplies. Japan is in the same situation. If you were to only look at the present as an example of the future then I can understand why you would have the opinion you do.

Russia is/was the easy solution but the world is now finding out that easiest does not mean the best.

0 ( +3 / -3 )

AlternativeOpinion

Today 12:50 pm JST

You still don't give these other sources of LNG you claimed are available!

Let me point out what is publicly available

https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/qatarenergy-aims-become-top-lng-trader-says-ceo-2022-10-18/

https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/qatar-can-divert-up-15-its-gas-exports-2022-02-22/

So I ask again where is this LNG going to come from if Japan stops using Russian gas?

Please provide facts not feelings not maybe, not if we change to XYZ, just a straight answer where will the replacement gas come from NOW not in XYZ years later.

-3 ( +2 / -5 )

Japan is the largest importer of LNG.

Two-thirds of its LNG is from Australia, Malaysia, and Qatar.

In 2021, Japan imported 1.9 million tonnes of LNG from Oman, 2.6% of its total imports, and 7.1 million tonnes from the United States, accounting for 9.5% of its total imports.

In the financial year 2022, the value of LNG exports from Australia to Japan amounted to around 28.89 billion Australian dollars, a noticeable increase from 2021. For the financial year 2022, Japan was Australia's leading export market by value for LNG.

Russian LNG is only about 8%.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

Posting links to a news outlet when previously you discredited them. LOL

1 ( +3 / -2 )

Australia could easily supply an additional 8% of LNG imports.

1 ( +4 / -3 )

Since you are such a "facts" based commenter:

https://www.statista.com/statistics/1262074/global-lng-export-capacity-by-country/#:~:text=As%20of%202022%2C%20Australian%20terminals,of%2073.9%20million%20metric%20tons.

the near future with regards to contracts and spot pricing:

https://www.spglobal.com/commodityinsights/en/market-insights/latest-news/lng/112422-japan-poised-for-more-spot-lng-trades-in-2023-as-over-6-mil-mtyear-term-supply-expires

also upcoming supplies to enter the markets in the near term:

https://www.mentorimcgroup.com/2023/01/17/lng-projects-to-watch-for-2023/

any more and I will send you a bill for my time ;)

1 ( +3 / -2 )

Japan just work it out with Russia and play nice. Then they won't cut your energy supply off. Can't blame Russia for cutting it off if you don't play ball. You have no choice really. Made that decision way back during period of high-economic growth. You're an addict now. By Choice.

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

Still no alternative to Russia being put forward, BTW the 8% gas from Russia translates into far larger portion of the energy needs.

To say 8% without looking at what that 8% is used for or provides is like saying my car only accounts for 10% of my fuel use and expenses but my car due to the nature of my business is responsible for 50% of my income by providing the needed transportation of large items.

Well that 8% has is used to produce between 15% and 20% of Japans electricity.

Right cut that 8% and we in Japan lose as much as 20% of our electricity.

-2 ( +2 / -4 )

wallace

Today 01:08 pm JST

Posting links to a news outlet when previously you discredited them. LOL

Yes but you guys love them so you should trust them more so I provide you with what you trust.

Go figure.

0 ( +3 / -3 )

Australia could easily supply an additional 8% of LNG imports

Nope they have already said so.

Like Qatar, Australia has said the only way it can sell more to the EU or Japan is by breaking already existing long term contracts with other countries.

You will find that pointed out in more of you favorite Reuters articles.

0 ( +4 / -4 )

Japan plans to restart 10 Nuclear reactors to reduce the need for LNG fueled power stations and with the world LNG market to massively increase suppy over the next few years, I don't see a problem. Russia can and will be sidelined within the LNG markets. Oil? is another story.

0 ( +3 / -3 )

Like Qatar, Australia has said the only way it can sell more to the EU or Japan is by breaking already existing long term contracts with other countries.

The spot market is healthy...

0 ( +2 / -2 )

8% means that the other 92% of LNG is imported from other countries. LNG is the same but oil has many different types and uses.

No one can actually know how 8% of Russian LNG is used. It just goes into the supply system. It does not arrive bottled and labelled.

About 32% (2021) of LNG imports are used for power generation.

Right cut that 8% and we in Japan lose as much as 20% of our electricity.

LNG is not that energy efficient. Wishful thinking.

There are also stocks of LNG.

31 Aug 2022

LNG stocks at Japan's power utilities rise to the highest on record.

Japan Signs New LNG Deals To Diversify Natural Gas Supply

Dec 27, 2022

"Japanese firms have signed new long-term agreements to buy LNG from the United States and Oman as Japan looks to cater for its energy security and further diversify its LNG sourcing options."

3 ( +5 / -2 )

@Antiquesaving

Japan talks a big game and insufferably shouts about how morally superior they are compared to Russia. Maybe Japan should walk the walk and stop buying anything from Russia. If it means some people go without power or heat, then so be it. Japan talks a big game. Was it for real or just false bravado?

-5 ( +2 / -7 )

You will find that pointed out in more of you favorite Reuters articles.

says the poster who posted Reuter links.

-1 ( +2 / -3 )

BroncoToday 06:55 am JST

Japanese families shouldn't have their heating bills go up to pay for geopolitical rivalries.

Only a minority of countries have actually joined the sanctions against Russia.

Most have realized that neutrality, open diplomacy and taking a pro-peace stance is the way to go.

Japan is finally taking a stand against the war mongers in Washington

Neutrality, or shall we say turning a blind eye, has done wonders for world peace! We could make a long list of preventable atrocities and genocide had a majority of countries shown courage in the face of evil. And lets be intellectually honest BroncoToday, it wasn't the "war mongers in Washington" who invaded Ukraine, TWICE in the past decade but Moscow!

2 ( +4 / -2 )

JoshK

Today 01:46 pm JST

@Antiquesaving

> Japan talks a big game

And you and The rest couldn't answer a single question.

So let me know when you USA handler give you an answer.

Funny but Australia and Qatar have both publicly said they cannot supply more, Europe is still struggling to find more supply all public available information but still you and a few others claim alternative gas sources are available without giving a single example or place.

And again no not Australia or Qatar as they have both stated .

-2 ( +2 / -4 )

@Antiquesaving

And you and The rest couldn't answer a single question.

So let me know when you USA handler give you an answer.

Funny but Australia and Qatar have both publicly said they cannot supply more, Europe is still struggling to find more supply all public available information but still you and a few others claim alternative gas sources are available without giving a single example or place.

And again no not Australia or Qatar as they have both stated .

It's not about whether Japan can find alternative sources or not. It's about keeping their word. If some people have to go without power and heat, then so be it. Japan talks as if Russia is literally Satan and the worst thing ever. Surely some days without power and heat for a few people is worth not helping Russia, correct?

-6 ( +1 / -7 )

It is amazing how many rich people are on this site.

I mean they must be rich seeing they seem fine if gas prices go up 4 or 5 times ( that is the price difference between Russia and USA has).

Imagine the $ 4 a dozen eggs in the USA coming here isn't a problem for these rich expats.

Japans government isn't responsible for Ukrainians or anyone else, just the Japanese and should and will do what is best for its people.

Unlike USA and Europe that will make their people suffer for political games.

Remember 38% in the USA say the economy is important only 8% Ukraine war is.

The Japanese government knows who elected them and it wasn't the Gaijin here or Ukrainians or Americans

0 ( +6 / -6 )

It's not about whether Japan can find alternative sources or not. It's about keeping their word.

You mean like not expanding NATO.

Like that?

Why are we here? Because Russia expanded West? No wait because the west expanded East as did NATO after multiple warnings from all sides this would lead to war.

Now the USA wants German tanks attacking Russia what a way to start WW3.

But some here seems to think that is a good thing.

I guess no fighting age children.

Japan is far smarter than any EU country or the USA and if we don't blow the world up will come out far better off than the USA Canada UK and EU.

1 ( +6 / -5 )

Gas and electric price are already up 20%.

1 ( +2 / -1 )

 mean they must be rich seeing they seem fine if gas prices go up 4 or 5 times ( that is the price difference between Russia and USA has).

LNG "spot prices" are little under 2 times higher than before the Ukraine war started, which is not so bad considering the situation. The main issue is obtaining long term contracts, which you seem to be so hung up on. Supply will increase and many contracts are set to expire in the next 12-24 months so there will be plenty of negotiations going on around the world.

As for heating energy consumption? my household consumption has actually dropped and we have managed to slash our heating bill by a third within this expensive time.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Why are we here? Because Russia expanded West? No wait because the west expanded East as did NATO after multiple warnings from all sides this would lead to war.

No because exactly that Russia was expanding west.

Now the USA wants German tanks attacking Russia what a way to start WW3.

The tanks are to defend Ukraine from attacking Russians...

-3 ( +3 / -6 )

LNG and oil prices are down on last year.

China's LNG imports have slumped so far in 2022 as traders avoided expensive spot cargoes and took only longer-term contracted volumes, which are either at low fixed prices or linked to the price of crude oil.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

It is amazing how many rich people are on this site.

I'm well-off, but not rich. My net worth is ~$5M, though I'm in my late 20s.

I mean they must be rich seeing they seem fine if gas prices go up 4 or 5 times ( that is the price difference between Russia and USA has).

Imagine the $ 4 a dozen eggs in the USA coming here isn't a problem for these rich expats.

The Japanese government is going around talking about how we should all be supporting Ukraine, so why are they helping Russia?

Japans government isn't responsible for Ukrainians or anyone else, just the Japanese and should and will do what is best for its people.

Unlike USA and Europe that will make their people suffer for political games.

Remember 38% in the USA say the economy is important only 8% Ukraine war is.

I understand that the Japanese gov will do what's best for itself, not Ukraine. My issue is the hypocrisy and the 2-faced talk. If Japan was more like other countries and just supported Ukraine financially without the circus act, then I wouldn't be criticizing them.

-8 ( +3 / -11 )

There is an egg shortage because of the bird flu.

0 ( +2 / -2 )

Your right according to you it is a Ukraine only situation, the entire world needs to suffer for Ukraine.

If you think it is a "Ukraine only" situation you have not bothered to read my full post, and you fail to understand the big picture. That is nothing for you to be ashamed of as many like you, cant see the big picture.

This is about Covid around the globe, shutdowns as a result and economic fallout of years of supply chain difficulties. To top it off the siuation Russia has caused in Ukraine by its invasion to grab new territories. The entire world needs to stop Russia from succeeding in empire building in Europe, or prepare for more in the near future. Stop them now or it will cost more to stop them later. Some like you would prefer to see Ukraine fall and Russia get bigger, and those not executed or imprisoned by a Russian victory become soldiers in Russia's next campaign, and they do so with plenty of western weapons systems to use and backwards engineer.

The west is in too deep to stop now, and must supply Ukraine to victory or have missiles pulled apart for the tech when Russia moves in and takes over western weapons stocks.

You may prefer to have Russia defeat Ukraine, but that is a nightmare situation for Europe and the free world.

1 ( +5 / -4 )

People shouldnt freeze and itd be great if there were alternatives or everyone worked towards finding ways not to be so dependent on whats russia has to offer to manipulate many... but its not only Japan’s problem, the whole world has been dependent and relaxed for many years. Why making some efforts if there’s gas and oil? Hopefully, sadly that at such a cost but i do hope this war will be a good reason for many to reconsider their attitude and at last start doing sth, thinking about climate and other future possible crisis and find ways to go beyond the world of mr putin’s oil and gas.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

The west is in too deep to stop now, and must supply Ukraine to victory or have missiles pulled apart for the tech when Russia moves in and takes over western weapons stocks.

Oh please, the Russians already have them.

The had plenty on display in Moscow at the arms show last year. Then we have all those sold by Ukraine to other places like Africa as many African leaders have complained about the influx of weapons into Africa from Ukraine.

So the horse has left the barn a long time ago.

The entire world needs to stop Russia from succeeding in empire building in Europe, or prepare for more in the near future

But no evidence, Russia did nothing when Poland joined NATO, same for Latvia Lithuania Estonia.

But we keep being told Russia is the threat because after NATO moved east east east east east and again east, Russia finally said More!

Fear mongering is all I hear, but it wasn't Russia in Iraq, it isn't Russia backing Saudi in Yemen, it wasn't Russia that created the Iran we have today by placing a dictator in power to do the USA bidding setting up the eventual revolution.

Same in South Korea, Chile, Peru, Barista in Cuba, Pakistan military coups, etc...

Funny how we here fear Russia but I don't see Russia in south america right now but I do see the USA,

Fear mongering.

Russia will take what it feels is its territory and tell the west to stay out and as long as that is done Russia will not move west.

The western wars with Russia have been 90% others going into Russia not the other way around.

-1 ( +4 / -5 )

But no evidence, Russia did nothing when Poland joined NATO, same for Latvia Lithuania Estonia.

But we keep being told Russia is the threat because after NATO moved east east east east east and again east, Russia finally said More!

NATO exists because of fears of Russian invasion going back to the end of ww2 and the number of countries that were invaded by Russia after ww2. Countries still want to join because of the fear of being invaded by Russia. So what does Russia do to protest this? Invades another country.

1 ( +5 / -4 )

NATO exists because of fears of Russian invasion going back to the end of ww2 and the number of countries that were invaded by Russia after ww2. Countries still want to join because of the fear of being invaded by Russia. So what does Russia do to protest this? Invades another country.

Interesting rewriting of history.

If I remember correctly the USSR did most of the fighting most of the retaking of the territories taken by Germany.

While the USSR did hold on to those territories, the USA spent the next several decades, promoting coups in every country not following what it said.

Chile, Argentina, Cuba, Iran, Pakistan, South Korea etc.. siding with dictators and military juntas over elected governments.

Every time a left leaning government was legally elected, a CIA coup followed.

But they don't count because the USA only did it all by proxy just like this war now.

Same as in Iraq and Iran as the USA supplied Saddam Hussein just to get back a Iran the USA didn't care about what was right only that it's enemy was destroyed and here we again, the USA doesn't care about Ukrainians only that Russia get hurt.

-2 ( +5 / -7 )

Interesting rewriting of history.

as to you sir ;)

3 ( +6 / -3 )

Soviet Empire of 15 countries but the US didn't have one.

1 ( +4 / -3 )

wallace

Today 04:50 pm JST

Soviet Empire of 15 countries but the US didn't have one

Really, correct it just takes and incorporates.

Mexican territory, Hawaii, just to name a few, them we have the Philippines 1 Million killed to hold on to it.

Then we have the word banana Republic why? Because they were dictatorships created by the USA.

You are right the Russian Empire, the USSR and Russia are direct they are honest about how and what they take.

The USA does in proxy war, through dictators and by " liberating ' territory of its neighbours.

How many central and south American dictatorships did the USA create, middle East dictatorships it create and supports, Africa, Asian?

I guess if you don't see it upfront it is Ok in your book.

-3 ( +3 / -6 )

AlternativeOpinion

Today 04:47 pm JST

Interesting rewriting of history.

> as to you sir

Prove anything I wrote was incorrect!

Good luck

-4 ( +3 / -7 )

@JoshK

Better than what?

The USA is a menace and a bully just like Russia.

War mongers the lot of you !!

-2 ( +2 / -4 )

Re-open all nuke generators and build new ones; solars and wind are good but japanese tanks don't run on electricity, so oil is needed. Climate change people pls stay quiet till this crisis is over.

Conserve energy. First, turn down your heat. I keep the kerosene burner thermostat at 10 degrees but temp is 15 upstairs where i work and sleep, and that's good enough with a couple of layers of fleece. Second, turn off most lights at night. in my entire house i use a single USB-LED plugged into my laptop and that illuminates my keyboard and also downstairs where i only go to raid the fridge now and then. i save money and help the country.

Russian gas is relatively cheap now for Japan just like for other countries, so don't exaggerate an upper hand of Russia over Japan. ideologues do that too much to bash the US and the West but their narratives are getting less credible in full face of the Ukraine war.
1 ( +1 / -0 )

quote: I'm well-off, but not rich. My net worth is ~$5M, though I'm in my late 20s.

You are rich. Stop pretending you aren't. It's an insult to all the people out there struggling to heat their homes and put food on the table.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

I don't want my money going to putin for his stupid war....

With all my respect to you... Why did Japan intervene in the R-Ukr conflict by joining the sanctions? What did Russia bore you with? Russia built Nord Stream to provide Europe with cheap gas. And Russia benefits and Europe does. Europe itself participated in their construction. America bent the Europeans and The Americans blew the streams up. Is Putin to blame again? You Japanese do not understand anything about this conflict. Maybe you shouldn't judge? Do you understand that you will not stop this conflict? Neither u nor me, nor Russian people. The conflict is developing and will get worse. And answer yourself the question: why do 80 percent (plus or minus) support their president? Are they all monsters? Maybe they know something and understand something inaccessible for you.....especially for those who forgot fully who nuked Hirosima and Nagasaki ? It seems that only Russia keeps the fact who blew up Hiroshima and Nagasaki in their textbooks. A complete ban on this fact around the world!

0 ( +1 / -1 )

@Awa no Gaijin

I don't want my money going to putin for his stupid war

I don't support Russia, but the war isn't "stupid". Russia felt pressured by NATO due to their constant pressuring of neighboring states to side with the west. Obviously, Russia feels that they're being encircled by their enemies.

If you think for a bit, what do you think the US would do if China or Russia went to Canada and Mexico and told them to host missiles pointed directly at the US? Do you think the US will do nothing? Considering what the US tried to do in Cuba during the Cold War, I'd saying doing nothing is unlikely. Most likely, you'll see US forces storming Mexico and Canada and toppling their governments within a month.

Russia hasn't been a major threat since the 90s. They mostly want to just be left alone and sell gas. I still say the best response would have been doing nothing and not interfering in the governments of Russia's neighbors.

-1 ( +2 / -3 )

Russia is the world's largest country and impossible for any country to encircle it.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

@GBR48

You are rich. Stop pretending you aren't. It's an insult to all the people out there struggling to heat their homes and put food on the table.

I am not rich. I have some financial security. I can buy a $2500 macbook or a PC without caring much about financing. I can buy an overpriced $5 starbucks latte without stress. A few million relieves the need to budget for small purchases.

A rich person, on the other hand, is someone who buys yachts and supercars; goes on $50,000/night private island resorts; has a private plane; and dates supermodels. I do none of those things.

$5M is nothing these days. It is certainly a lot for a 28-year-old, but not much compared to 50 to 70-year-old billionaires.

-2 ( +1 / -3 )

@wallace

Right. Possibly not 1 country, but with an alliance of many countries, including the ones bordering Russia, Russia can feel like they are trapped.

I do not blame Russia entirely for the invasion. It can be argued that NATO is also largely at fault.

-3 ( +1 / -4 )

$5M is nothing these days.

Have you checked the average net worth of people in different countries? The link below is for the median in Japan - about $120,000 - less than nothing it would seem, much like me.

https://www.statista.com/statistics/679825/japan-median-wealth-per-adult/

2 ( +2 / -0 )

50 years later and what do get? Cheapest provider and that's that. Oh yeah, that hydrogen solution has it building engines which wear out and requires maintenance. Everything needs to make money no matter what the real costs are. Being fully prepared for the insanity of the gang of three is possible but what are the real costs?...

1 ( +1 / -0 )

I do not blame Russia entirely for the invasion. It can be argued that NATO is also largely at fault.

It can also be argued that the Easter bunny is real. But then real life, facts, and you know, intelligence come into play, and you realize, no, NATO isn't fault for Russia deciding to invade Ukraine at all. As in, not even a little bit. Russia decided unilaterally to invade and kill Ukrainian people in their homes, in an attempt to expand their borders towards NATO territory, provoking a war with NATO.

0 ( +2 / -2 )

@Strangerland

NATO was pressuring Ukraine to join them and side with the west. This is not a conspiracy theory and no one disputes this.

Had US and its allies stayed neutral in post-Soviet blocs, then there wouldn't be an invasion. Do you think the US would sit still and let China make anti-US alliances with Canada and Mexico? You can't entirely blame Russia for the Ukraine situation.

-1 ( +2 / -3 )

Is this what we used to call 'hypocrisy'?

2 ( +2 / -0 )

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