We continue our Supply Chain Matters commentaries regarding the evolving global supply chain impacts concerning the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan on March 11. Reports today are noting that Sony Corporation has restated production at the last of the 10 Japan factories that were damaged as a result of the disaster. The Tagajo production facility which produces Blu-ray disks resumed limited production today. Restoration was in-line with a plan announced in late April.
An article published in the printed Financial Times (paid subscription required) also makes note that direct damage for Japan’s manufacturers has been substantial. A survey conducted by Japan’s Nikkei business newspaper has pegged direct disaster-related costs for listed Japanese companies at Y2, 000 billion ($25 billion). Thus far, corporate reports of direct losses have been in the range of $4-$5 billion.
Meanwhile, Nikkei reports that the port of Serndai accommodated its first foreign vessel, a Panamanian-registered coal carrying ship, on noon Friday, eleven weeks since the day of the disaster. While the port was able to accommodate some shipping in April, concerns about high radiation levels from the badly damaged Fukishima Daiichi nuclear power complex caused foreign vessels to avoid the port. The newspaper also reported that Sendai International Airport is currently anticipating the hosting of international flights in late June.
Bob Ferrari
