- Namrita Chow, a Shanghai-based analyst at industry researcher IHS Automotive
Japanese carmakers, such as Toyota Motor and Honda Motor, see a recovery in sales in China, as anti-Japan tensions eased and companies see possibilities how to get a bigger market share in the world's second biggest economy's market. Toyota is going to launch 20 new models to China in the next three years, while Nissan is likely to expand its presence in smaller Chinese cities. However, analysts think it will take more than marketing quick fixes in order to stem the fall in popularity of Japanese brands. Companies have to increase the pace of new model introductions and to establish better connections with customers.
"In 2013 Japanese brands will go all out to regain any lost ground encountered in the fourth quarter of this year," Namrita Chow, a Shanghai-based analyst at industry researcher IHS Automotive, said. "This will mean new model launches, discounts and good service packages as well as an increased line up of models on offer to consumers in China."
"The market is recovering day by day. The situation is getting better," said Ye Lei, director of Venucia, Nissan Dongfeng's low-price brand for China. He didn't give figures.
© Dukascopy Bank SA