[Kumamoto Earthquake] Honda's Sole Domestic Motorcycle Plant, Kumamoto Factory, Announces Suspension of Operations Until July 31st

Honda's Kumamoto factory, the sole domestic motorcycle production facility, has suspended operations due to an earthquake that occurred on July 28. Furthermore, it has been announced that this operational suspension will be extended until July 31.

No Human Casualties Due to Earthquake

The Kumamoto factory (1500 Hirakawa, Ozu-machi, Kikuchi-gun, Kumamoto Prefecture), Honda's domestic motorcycle production base, has been affected by the Kumamoto earthquake, which originated in Kumamoto Prefecture. Fortunately, there were no human casualties and minimal infrastructure damage. However, some areas experienced flooding due to the activation of fire sprinklers.

Operations were initially announced to be suspended until July 29, the day after the earthquake on July 28. Today, the suspension has been further extended until July 31.

The Kumamoto factory began operations in 1976 and celebrated its 50th anniversary this year. It is Honda's sole domestic motorcycle production facility and serves as a "mother factory," transferring technology and know-how to Honda factories worldwide. It also produces power products such as lawnmowers and generators, as well as outboard motors, and employs approximately 2,430 people. Honda's official comment regarding the earthquake is as follows:

Comment from Honda Public Relations Division, Corporate Communications Department

We would like to provide the following update regarding the earthquake originating in Kumamoto Prefecture, based on our confirmation today, the 29th.

Regarding the operational status of the Kumamoto factory:
Given the ongoing aftershocks and the continued assessment of damage to our suppliers, we have decided to extend the suspension of operations at the Kumamoto factory until July 31 (Friday) to prioritize the safety of our employees and business partners, and to allow time for repairs in areas within the factory that sustained damage.

Thank you for your understanding.

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