Japan electronic parts makers' rising stocks stoke production cut fears

Taiyo Yuden cites China lockdowns, while Murata sees smartphone slowdown

Murata Manufacturing scaled back production to around 90% of capacity from 95% in July as market uncertainties grow. (Photo courtesy of Murata Manufacturing)

TAISHU YUASA, YUJI OHIRA and RYOSUKE EGUCHI, Nikkei staff writers

August 4, 2022 11:53 JST

TOKYO/KYOTO, Japan -- Inventories are piling up at Japan's leading electronics parts producers due to protracted lockdowns in China and disruptions in the auto industry, stoking concern that a further downturn in demand could force them to scale back production drastically.