Headline: Japanese Snack Giant Changes Packaging Amid Iran War Supply Disruptions

Why this matters: The conflict is affecting global supply chains beyond energy markets, increasing costs for consumer goods manufacturers worldwide.

Date: 12 May 2026

Tags: Business, Japan, Supply Chains, Middle East

Summary:

• Japanese snack company Calbee will temporarily use black-and-white packaging for some products.

• The packaging change affects 14 products, including crisps and prawn crackers.

• New packaging will begin appearing in Japanese shops from 25 May.

• Calbee cited supply instability affecting raw materials used in printing ink.

• Disruptions followed conflict involving Iran, the US and Israel in the Middle East.

• Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has largely halted since the conflict began on 28 February.

• Supplies of naphtha, used in ink and plastics production, have been heavily disrupted.

• Asian naphtha prices have almost doubled since the conflict started.

• Japan previously imported around 40% of its naphtha from the Middle East.

• Other companies, including foodmakers, airlines and car manufacturers, also reported rising costs and supply problems.

What’s next: Japan is seeking alternative naphtha suppliers outside the Middle East to reduce future supply disruptions.