Toyota halts production after severe earthquakes hit Kyushu, Japan

Apr. 18, 2016 – As a result of severe earthquakes that struck Kyushu, Japan on April 14 and after, Toyota has announced it will suspend production on its vehicle assembly lines in stages between April 18 and 23 due to parts shortages.

The automaker said decisions regarding recommencement of operation at plants in Japan will be made on the basis of availability of parts.

“On behalf of everyone at Toyota, I would like to offer my prayers to all those who lost their lives in the devastating earthquakes that have repeatedly struck Kumamoto Prefecture in Kyushu since last Thursday. My thoughts are with the families and friends of the bereaved, as well as the survivors,” said Akio Toyoda, president of Toyota Motor Corporation, in a statement today. “You have shown unbelievable courage in your efforts to bring stability back to the area, even though your lives have been turned upside down, and even though you must constantly worry about when the next aftershock might come — and whether you will be able to sleep safely each night.”

“In a smaller way, Toyota has also been affected by this disaster. Although we are still trying to assess the exact impact on our operations, we are aware of issues at suppliers and production facilities, as well as dealerships. Toyota team members are already working side-by-side with local residents to support the ongoing relief and recovery efforts,” continued the statement.

The Associated Press is reporting at least 42 people are dead and nearly 1,100 injured in the two quakes.

Toyoda said the company “will do in anything we can to help effect a swift recovery in the stricken area.”