Energy
Gasoline demand remains steady from slow shift to electrics
The Idemitsu group operates six refineries in Japan, including this one in Chiba prefecture southeast of Tokyo. (Photo by Rie Ishii)
MAO KAWANO
February 28, 2026 02:38 JST
TOKYO — Japanese oil company Idemitsu Kosan has reversed a plan to close refineries in Japan, choosing to maintain six refineries until 2030 as a slower-than-expected shift to electric vehicles means gasoline demand is likely to hold steady.