It is likely to be this afternoon before the automotive industry fully understands what Japan entering a state of emergency will mean for the motor industry.
Yesterday prime minister Shinzo Abe declared the move for parts of Australia’s largest source of imported vehicles, alongside an economic stimulus package.
Abe indicated a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in Tokyo and other urban areas had triggered a rethink of Japan’s approach.
“We are not at a stage where rapid nationwide spread is being observed, but some areas are under pressure, so we don’t have the luxury of time,” he said, adding that the rise in infections was straining the country’s health service.
“To relieve that pressure there will have to be a transformation in people’s behaviour,” he said. “Preventing an explosion in cases, saving people in serious conditions and protecting you and your loved ones depends on how we change our behaviour.”
The state of emergency will run until May 6, and initially apply to Tokyo and the surrounding prefectures – Chiba, Kanagawa and Saitama. Osaka is also included, along with neighbouring Hyogo to the west, and Fukuoka in the south.
The lockdown covers the areas feeding the two major export ports in Osaka and Yokohama, though Nagoya – an important area for both new and used vehicle exports are not covered.
Abe has called for people to reduce their contact with others by 70-80%, non-essential workers are being asked to work from home, and others are expected to stagger shifts.
AutoTalk has spoken to leaders of the motor vehicle industry, who indicate it will be this afternoon, after the opening of business in Japan, when it will be understood what impact the state of emergency will have.
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