Nissan is considering the closure of two automobile assembly plants in Japan and factories abroad, including in Mexico, according to reports from the Japanese press.
The third largest Japanese automaker is studying the possibility of shutting down the Oppama factory in Japan, where Nissan began production in 1961, and the Shonan factory, operated by Nissan Shatai, in which Nissan holds a 50% stake, leaving the brand with only three vehicle assembly plants in Japan.
Abroad, Nissan is now considering the possibility of ceasing production at factories in South Africa, India, and Argentina, as well as reducing the number of production units in Mexico.
It is worth noting that Nissan announced last week a new cost reduction plan, stating that it aims to reduce its workforce by 20,000 employees between the fiscal years 2024 and 2027, which includes the previously announced reduction of 9,000, and to decrease the number of factories from 17 to 10 worldwide. Additionally, the company announced that it will optimize engine plants and accelerate job restructuring, shift adjustments, and capital expenditure reductions, including the cancellation of the planned lithium iron phosphate battery factory in Kyushu.
However, Nissan has stated in a press release that reports regarding the potential closure of certain factories were speculative and not based on any official information from the company.
“At this time, we will not be making any further comments on this matter”, stated Nissan in a statement. “We are committed to maintaining transparency with our stakeholders and will communicate any relevant updates as necessary.”
