Core Viewpoint - Japanese companies are facing significant challenges in the Chinese market, leading to closures and exits from various sectors, but they are simultaneously increasing investments in high-end technology and local operations in China [4][22][29]. Group 1: Company Closures and Exits - Canon has closed its printer production base in Zhongshan, which was once a major manufacturing hub, reflecting a significant decline in its market presence [5]. - Nissan announced the closure of its Wuhan factory, which had a low production utilization rate of only 3%, leading to its acquisition by another company [6]. - Mitsubishi has completely exited the Chinese automotive market after over 40 years of operation, ceasing its vehicle production [6]. - Sony has officially withdrawn its Xperia smartphone business from China, indicating a strategic retreat from the market [6]. - Yakult closed its first factory in Guangzhou after experiencing a drastic drop in sales, with daily sales nearly halving compared to previous years [6]. Group 2: Market Dynamics and Competition - The decline of Japanese brands in China is attributed to the rapid advancement of domestic brands, which have overtaken their Japanese counterparts in various sectors [11][12]. - Japanese companies have been slow to adapt to market changes, relying heavily on their brand reputation and quality, which has diminished due to various scandals [14][17]. - The local adaptation of Japanese companies has lagged, with many failing to incorporate local consumer preferences into their product offerings [19][20]. Group 3: Strategic Shifts and Investments - Despite the closures, Japanese investment in China has surged, with a 55.5% year-on-year increase in the first three quarters of this year, leading all countries [23]. - Companies like Toyota are making significant investments in high-end technology, such as establishing a wholly-owned electric vehicle company in Shanghai [24]. - Panasonic is investing in semiconductor packaging materials in Shanghai, indicating a strategic focus on critical supply chains amid global competition [28]. - The overall trend shows a "K-shaped differentiation," where low-end capacities are exiting while high-end investments are increasing, reflecting a strategic shift in how Japanese companies view the Chinese market [29].
日本制造,拼命撤出中国?背后不简单
商业洞察·2026-01-06 09:23