Japan Sanctions 35 Russian Shadow Fleet Vessels For The First Time

by Ship & Bunker News Team
Tuesday October 6, 2026

Japan has, for the first time, sanctioned vessels linked to Russia’s shadow fleet, imposing restrictions on 35 vessels as part of a new package of measures linked to the Ukraine conflict.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan announced the measures on October 2 under the country’s Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs notice identified the 35 vessels by their IMO numbers.

They face restrictions on certain service transactions, while capital transactions linked to their sale, purchase, lease or charter are also subject to a permission requirement.

The vessel measures are part of a wider package targeting 33 Russian entities and nine individuals.
Japan has also imposed export restrictions on four entities outside Russia and Belarus and expanded controls on goods that could contribute to Russia’s industrial capabilities.

The restrictions apply to services and other obligations carried out from October 2.

Contracts signed before that date can, subject to certain conditions, continue to be performed until November 1.

The move marks the first time Japan has introduced vessel-specific measures as part of its sanctions response to Russia.

The IMO numbers of the sanctioned vessels can be viewed here.

Ship & Bunker News Team
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