Toyota manufacturer ‘completely’ shuts down its plant till Feb 14

• IMC to start its production on a “single shift” basis from Feb 15.
• Toyota manufacturer cites “insufficient inventory levels” as reason.
• Company continues to face major hurdles in import of raw materials.

Indus Motor Company (IMC), the maker of Toyota vehicles, has decided to “completely” shut down its production plant in the country from February 1 to 14 period, citing “insufficient inventory levels” as the reason behind the move.

In a letter addressed to the general manager of the Pakistan Stock Exchange, the IMC management said that in light of the recently introduced mechanism vide EPD Circular No. 20 of 2022 dated December 27, 2022 (effective from January 2), commercial banks were advised to prioritise/facilitate the imports to specified sectors only, which does not include auto.

“The company and its vendors continue to face major hurdles in import of raw materials and receiving clearance of their consignments from commercial banks,” the notice read.

The Toyota manufacturer mentioned that these deterrents have disrupted the entire supply chain and the vendors were unable to supply raw materials and components to the company.

“Accordingly, the company has insufficient inventory levels, therefore, the company is unable to continue its production activities,” the notice read.

The automaker announced that the company has decided to completely shut down its plant from February 1 to 14. 

Moreover, the company has also decided to start its production on a “single shift” basis from February 15 until further notice.

Earlier on December 19, the IMC announced a 10-day plant shutdown — the third time in 2022 — due to “hurdles in import and clearance of consignments”.

The company, in a notice sent to the PSX, said that the production plant would be completely shut down from December 20 to 30, 2022 (both days inclusive).

It should be noted that the IMC announced a temporary shutdown of its production plant from September 1 to September 15, 2022, on insufficient inventory levels to maintain its production, as well as on account of a delay in approvals from the SBP for the import of CKD kits and components of passenger vehicles.

The company had also shut down its plant earlier from August 1 to August 13, 2022.