May 12, 2026

The representative organizations of SMEs and farms in Japan on May 11 demanded that the government implement effective support measures to protect their businesses from the adverse effects of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which was triggered by U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran and which is having a negative impact on their business operations.

Accompanied by Japanese Communist Party member of the House of Councillors Daimon Mikishi, the National Liaison Council of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises Circles (Zenchuren), comprising the Japanese Medical and Dental Practitioners for Improvement of Medical Care (Hodanren); the National Franchise Chain Association (FCA); and the National Federation of Traders and Producers Organizations (Zenshoren), made representations to the Ministry of Finance, the National Tax Agency, the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency as well as to several other relevant ministries and agencies.

Their demands included: tax exemptions or deferred payments; direct subsidies for energy costs; solutions to supply shortages of petroleum-based materials; and cash payments for SMEs suffering revenue losses.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, the sectors most affected were primarily lodging and food services. This time, however, the impact is much broader,” said a small business owner. A private housing contractor said, “Even if I receive a government loan, I have to pay it back, but the situation makes it difficult to do so.” A painting contractor said, “We want material supplies rather than loans.”

Accompanied by JCP member of the House of Councillors Iwabuchi Tomo, the Japan Family Famers Movement (Nouminren) made representations to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.

Nouminren demanded that the ministry implement emergency measures to protect farming operations from shortages and rising prices of crude oil and agricultural supplies, as well as from the damage caused by natural disasters.

Nouminren President Hasegawa Toshiro said, “The Hormuz crisis is likely to have a significant impact on this year’s and next year’s agricultural production. The government should take immediate action.”

A farmer from Chiba expressed concern about the availability of plastic sheeting for greenhouses this fall. Another farmer from Hokkaido said, “March and April are the months for tractor oil changes, but there is no engine oil. Even if it were available, the price has skyrocketed.”