Japan Paper Industry Reassures Public on Toilet Paper Supply Amid Rising Tensions

Japan’s household paper industry has moved to reassure consumers that there is no shortage of toilet paper, despite growing concerns fueled by global geopolitical tensions and online speculation. The Japan Household Paper Industry Association stated that production, shipments, and inventories remain stable, urging consumers not to engage in panic buying.

Industry representatives explained that Japan’s toilet paper supply is relatively secure because around 60% of raw materials come from domestically recycled paper, while the rest of the pulp is imported from regions such as North and South America and Southeast Asia. The group noted that the impact of rising oil prices or Middle East instability on the sector is currently limited.

Authorities also highlighted that previous shortages in Japan—including during the 1973 oil crisis, the 2011 earthquake, and the COVID-19 pandemic—were largely caused by panic buying rather than actual supply disruptions. The industry has therefore called on the public to remain calm and purchase products responsibly to avoid unnecessary shortages in stores.

The association emphasized that toilet paper will continue to be readily available as long as consumers refrain from hoarding, reinforcing confidence in Japan’s stable household paper supply chain.