Japan's Idemitsu to import non-Middle East LNG; copper outshines gold

· Energy · Japan

Japanese oil refiner Idemitsu will import LNG from outside the Middle East, diversifying supply as conflict in the region raises risks for energy shipments. The move reflects a broader push by Japanese buyers to secure alternatives to Middle East energy. In metals, copper is up 15.8% in 2026, outperforming gold, as investors point to AI, grid and national security demand, tight supply and tariff-driven US stockpiles, with some saying the rally can survive an AI correction.

Why it matters：Energy importers are diversifying away from the Middle East, while copper's rise shows how AI and security demand are reshaping commodity markets.

Key points

  • Idemitsu to import non-Middle East LNG
  • Copper has gained 15.8% in 2026
  • Demand from AI, grids and security cited

Sources (original reporting)

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