How does the naphtha shortage affect our daily lives?

There are concerns about rising prices for goods and services, as well as potential shortages of certain products. Consumers are being encouraged to find ways to reduce waste and utilize alternatives.

What measures can we take immediately?

Consumers are responding by reducing waste of consumables, carefully using plastic products, and maintaining a moderate stockpile of essential items.

What did the survey reveal?

The survey revealed that most consumers are highly aware of the situation, are actively gathering information, and are beginning to innovate in their daily habits.

【Survey】Over 70% of consumers fear rising prices due to naphtha shortage; defensive consumer behavior intensifies

Published May 19, 2026 8:00 PM ・ Updated Jun 14, 2026 12:00 AM ・ 4 min read ・ Source: PR TIMES

The Kufu Consumer Research Institute conducted a survey on the naphtha supply shortage. Over 90% are aware of the situation, and more than 70% worry about further price hikes. Defensive actions such as saving resources and stockpiling are gaining traction.

The Kufu Consumer Research Institute, a think tank dedicated to improving life satisfaction for individuals and society, has conducted a survey regarding the naphtha supply shortage.

Driven by heightened tensions in the Middle East, a shortage of naphtha—a key raw material for plastics—is impacting various sectors. The survey highlights significant concern and awareness among consumers regarding these ripple effects.

Key Survey Findings - Over 90% of respondents are aware of the naphtha shortage. - More than 70% fear further price hikes resulting from the shortage. - 30% are actively gathering information or reducing waste, while 20% have begun stockpiling.

Survey Overview Survey Theme: Consumer shopping attitudes Scope: Nationwide Participants: 8,383 users of the household budget app "Kufu Zaim" and the shopping information service "Kufu Tokubai." Duration: May 15, 2026, to May 18, 2026. Method: Internet-based survey.

Consumer Response When asked about concerns, the most frequent response was the "price increase of products and services (71.1%)," followed by the "inability to obtain necessary goods (64.8%)." Regarding preparations, while 42.0% noted they had taken no specific actions yet, approximately 30% reported gathering information or practicing frugal use of consumables. Around 20% confirmed they have started "stockpiling" items such as trash bags and food wrap. Consumers are demonstrating ingenuity in their daily lives, such as reusing plastic bags and opting for refillable products.

Kufu Consumer Research Institute remains committed to analyzing authentic consumer voices to provide insights that contribute to improved quality of life.

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Source: PR TIMES
Category: Survey

【Survey】Over 70% of consumers fear rising prices due to naphtha shortage; defensive consumer behavior intensifies

⚡ Key Points

Key Survey Findings - Over 90% of respondents are aware of the naphtha shortage. - More than 70% fear further price hikes resulting from the shortage. - 30% are actively gathering information or reducing waste, while 20% have begun stockpiling.

Survey Overview Survey Theme: Consumer shopping attitudes Scope: Nationwide Participants: 8,383 users of the household budget app "Kufu Zaim" and the shopping information service "Kufu Tokubai." Duration: May 15, 2026, to May 18, 2026. Method: Internet-based survey.

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