Toyota Sends Aid, Stops Production in China over Coronavirus Outbreak

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) extended its heartfelt sympathy to those affected by the novel coronavirus in China, which began on the detection of the first case on December 31, when China alerted the World Health Organization (WHO) of several flu-like cases in Wuhan, the capital city of Central China’s Hubei province with population of 11 million.

To support local relief efforts, Toyota is donating a hefty CNY 10 million (approx. PHP 73.5 million) to assist the Chinese people in combatting the outbreak of the Coronavirus. The beleaguered nation has implemented an unprecedented quarantine since January 23, as it attempts to contain the virus which has so far taken the life of 170 people and infected almost 8,000 worldwide.

In an open letter dated January 29, Toyota Motor President Akio Toyoda expressed his condolences and sympathies “to all those who lost their lives” and “to those who have been affected by the outbreak of Coronavirus.”

 

In his letter, Toyoda said that the top Japanese car company “has decided to donate 10 million CHY through the Red Cross Society of China to assist in the purchase costs of medical supplies such as masks, glasses, protective clothing, etc.”

Below is Toyoda’s letter in full.

I offer my condolences to all those who lost their lives, as well as my sympathy to those who have been affected by the outbreak of Coronavirus. At the same time, I would like to express my sincere respect to the healthcare professionals and government officials who are on the front lines day and night.

Toyota has a number of team members that work and live in China. I may not be able to understand the true feelings of the local people, but from our desire to help, Toyota has decided to donate 10 million CHY through the Red Cross Society of China to assist in the purchase costs of medical supplies such as masks, glasses, protective clothing, etc.

We, Toyota, will continue to monitor the situation and be mindful of the feelings of those in the midst of this outbreak, and focus on safety and security as the highest priority.

Jan. 29, 2020

Akio Toyoda, President

Toyota Motor Corporation

Aside from the sizeable donation, Toyota is also halting operations in China as the new coronavirus continues to spread. The company has also implemented travel restrictions to the affected province, although travel to other areas of the People’s Republic is permitted.

Toyota adds itself to the growing number of global companies that have significantly reduced their activities in the Southeast Asian nation.

©pressroom.toyota.com

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