Iran has begun talks with Japanese companies on resuming oil exports under a temporary U.S. sanctions waiver, although potential buyers are seeking a longer exemption and assurances over shipping security.

Axar.az reports, citing Reuters, that three Japanese buyers are considering purchasing Iranian crude for the first time since 2019, while Japanese and Iranian officials have held preliminary discussions on possible oil sales.

A senior Iranian official said any deal would require the United States to extend the current waiver, which expires on August 21.

“Iran's national oil company has approached traditional customers, including Japan, and indicated that if a peace deal is reached and sanctions are lifted, it would like them to resume purchases,” an Iranian oil ministry official told Reuters.

Sources said concerns over tanker safety, insurance coverage, and navigation through the Strait of Hormuz remain key obstacles to any agreement.