The manufacturer had previously announced the suspension of production at its Hiroshima and Hofu plants from the night shift on 14 March until 21 March, in the wake of the disaster.

Mazda is now resuming temporary production at both plants from March 22, producing replacement parts, parts for overseas production and vehicles utilising “in-process” inventories.

The carmaker added that this temporary resumption of operations will not affect recovery and relief activities in the areas affected by the earthquake.

It said that a decision on the continuation of full-scale production of both parts and vehicles will be made at a later date.