Calbee Switches Packaging Due to Naphtha Shortage

The ongoing Iran war and the resulting blockade of the Strait of Hormuz have caused significant disruptions in the global supply chain for petroleum-based products, particularly Naphtha. This has led to a 60% year-over-year price increase for Naphtha and supply instability. As a direct consequence, Calbee, Japan's largest snack maker, is switching to black-and-white packaging for 14 of its products starting May 25 to maintain stable supply. Other Japanese companies like Itoham Yonekyu Holdings and Shiseido are also considering similar measures or material substitutions. The government of Japan, through officials like Kei Satō and Sanae Takaichi, is working to reassure the public and businesses, increasing Naphtha imports from countries outside the Middle East, such as the United States, which have tripled in May. Tensions between the United States and Iran remain high despite a fragile ceasefire.