TOKYO, Toyota Motor Corp (7203.T) reported a continued decline in global production for the sixth straight month in July, with output dropping by 1% compared to the same period last year. The decrease, attributed to weak performances in key markets like China and Thailand, was smaller than June’s double-digit decline.
In July, Toyota produced 804,610 vehicles globally, with production in China falling by 6% and in Thailand by 13%. Global sales also saw a slight decline of less than 1%, primarily impacted by reductions in the United States and China.
U.S. sales dropped by 5%, partly due to fewer sales days compared to last year and the temporary suspension of production and delivery of the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX SUVs due to an airbag issue. In China, Toyota faced challenges from the growing dominance of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids by local automakers, leading to further pressure on foreign brands.
Toyota’s global sales and production figures include its Lexus luxury brand.