Japan revealed that new car sales abroad for six out of eight Japanese automakers declined in August, with the Chinese market being the hardest hit due to intense competition and falling demand for gasoline vehicles.
On 30 Sep 2026 GMT+7, Japanese authorities released data showing that new car sales abroad by six of the eight major Japanese automakers decreased in August. Toyota, Honda, Nissan, and Daihatsu reported lower overseas sales compared to the same period last year, as did Mitsubishi Motors and Mazda.
The data indicated that the Chinese market experienced the largest sales decline, with Nissan and Honda seeing sales drop by about 50%, and Toyota’s sales down approximately 23%. This reflects a continuous loss of market share to competitors in China and weakening demand for gasoline-powered vehicles.
However, Suzuki and Subaru were the two brands that managed to maintain their overseas sales. Suzuki remains popular in India, while Subaru continues to have strong sales in Canada.
Analysts view that Japanese car manufacturers are facing pressure from Chinese brand competition, especially in the electric vehicle sector, while demand for gasoline engine cars is declining.
Source: NHK