Why is Japan facing a potato chips crisis? Hormuz oil disruptions force Yamayoshi Seika to halt production

Japan’s snack supply has been disrupted as Yamayoshi Seika halts production of its popular Wasabeef potato chips, citing fuel shortages linked to the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz. The company has not indicated when production will resume.

The company said it has suspended production of six products, including its flagship wasabi-and-beef-flavoured chips, after disruptions made it difficult to secure heavy oil used in manufacturing.

Wasabeef potato chips are a signature product of Yamayoshi Seika, known for blending the sharp heat of wasabi with the savoury richness of beef flavour. The chips are widely popular in Japan for their bold, spicy taste and distinctive seasoning, making them a cult favourite among snack enthusiasts.


“We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and trouble this will cause our customers and business partners,” the company said.

According to the Japan Times website, Yamayoshi Seika said it has temporarily closed its direct sales outlet and online store, halting new orders while continuing to process existing ones. Availability will be limited to the remaining inventory at supermarkets and other retail outlets.

Why did it happen?

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments, has been blocked by Iran amid its conflict involving the United States and Israel, disrupting a significant share of crude exports and tightening fuel supplies.

The conflict involves Iran clashing with the United States and Israel, escalating tensions in the Middle East. Key maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, have been affected, disrupting global oil shipments. The standoff has triggered economic and supply-chain impacts worldwide, including shortages in fuel and consumer goods.

For import-reliant nations like Japan, such disruptions can quickly ripple through industries, as seen in the sudden shortage of popular snack products.

Yamayoshi’s suspension of production represents one of the first direct effects of the oil crisis on Japanese consumers.