KATHMANDU: Japanese automaker Nissan has officially denied reports suggesting it plans to shut down manufacturing operations in many countries, including in India.
The reports, which claimed Nissan was mulling over closing plants in India, Japan, Mexico, South Africa and Argentina, caused concern among customers and stakeholders—especially in markets like Nepal which rely heavily on Indian-made Nissan vehicles.
Issuing a statement, Nissan dismissed the reports as speculative and unfounded, stating that there are no official plans to halt manufacturing in India or elsewhere. The company also reaffirmed its commitment to the Indian market and confirmed that its future product roadmap remains unchanged.
This roadmap includes the upcoming launch of one B-segment MPV and two C-segment SUVs.
The speculation also raised concerns in Nepal where models like the Micra, Kicks and Magnite, all manufactured in India, are widely available.
“Nissan remains committed to its India operations and our product plans are on track,” the company said in the statement, adding that it continues to support its dealer network and customer with sales and service for both current and upcoming models.
The speculation also raised concerns in Nepal where models like the Micra, Kicks and Magnite, all manufactured in India, are widely available. The Magnite, known for its compact size and high ground clearance, has been especially popular on Nepali roads. Its updated version was introduced recently in the domestic market.
Citing example of Ford’s plant closure in India, which left many owners worried about after-sales service, spare parts availability and resale value, industry people in Nepal say that such rumors can affect consumer confidence.
Nissan has tried to address these concerns, reaffirming its commitment to vehicle exports from India under its “One Car, One World” initiative.
Meanwhile, the Renault Group has reportedly applied to the relevant Indian authority to for its nod to acquire Nissan’s 51% stake in their joint venture as part of an internal restructuring effort.
