Takaichi Approval Holds at 63 Percent Despite Deepening Public Anxiety Over Domestic Oil Shortages

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi maintains high approval despite 49% of Japanese voters expressing discontent with the government's response to oil supply shortages.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 7, 2026, 7:20 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Japan Today

Public Sentiment Amidst Energy Volatility

The approval rating for Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s Cabinet remains remarkably high at 63.8 percent, seeing only a marginal 0.3 percentage point dip from previous surveys. According to a Kyodo News poll conducted over the weekend, the administration’s baseline support is holding firm even as the nation grapples with the economic fallout of the Iran war. However, beneath the surface of this stable approval, a significant rift is forming regarding energy policy. Nearly 50 percent of respondents indicated that the Prime Minister’s efforts to mitigate oil supply disruptions have been insufficient, suggesting that the initial honeymoon period for the administration may be facing its first major stress test.

Tapping Strategic Reserves to Stabilize Markets

In a direct bid to counter the shortage, Japan has begun releasing approximately 80 million barrels of oil from its national stockpiles, a volume equivalent to roughly 45 days of domestic consumption. Takaichi has also signaled a willingness to coordinate further releases in May, potentially in tandem with the 32-member International Energy Agency. Despite these aggressive maneuvers, the poll indicates that public fear remains high, with nearly 90 percent of participants worried about the conflict’s long term effect on their personal finances. The disconnect between the government's massive reserve release and the public's perception of security highlights the psychological toll of the ongoing maritime blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.

Gasoline Subsidies and Demand Management

The cost of fuel has become a central point of political contention, with gasoline prices reaching a record 190.80 yen per liter in mid-March. While government subsidies have successfully brought the average retail price back down to approximately 170 yen, roughly 70 percent of the public demands that these financial interventions continue indefinitely. According to the industry minister, the government is now exploring formal steps to curb domestic oil demand. Takaichi has reinforced this by indicating that the public may soon be formally asked to reduce gasoline consumption, a move that could further test the limits of her Cabinet's popularity if high prices persist.