Bridgestone to end tire production at Taiwan plant

Hsinchu, Taiwan — Bridgestone Taiwan Co. will cease manufacturing operations at its Hsinchu tire plant as part of a broader business transformation process aimed at shifting towards a sales and service-focused model in Taiwan.

The Japanese group said 11 May that it had initiated plans to end production activities at the facility, citing “adjustments to its global operational strategy and long-term market development considerations.”

Operational since 1982, the Hsinchu plant has capacity to produce 11,800 passenger car and light vehicle tires per day.

Bridgestone said the move marks a transition in its Taiwan operations, with the group planning to “continue to deepen its presence in the Taiwan market” through sales, service and distribution activities.

The group said it would “focus on strengthening its sales and service capabilities, particularly through the enhancement of channel development and sales systems, while deepening collaboration with local distribution partners.”

According to Bridgestone, the new structure will allow it to “leverage its global manufacturing network more effectively while ensuring stable supply and enhanced product competitiveness in the Taiwan market.”