German carmaker Volkswagen will temporarily close its factories in the states of Puebla and Guanajuato in Mexico to reduce public health threats, the company's Mexican arm said in a statement on Friday amid growing concerns over the spread of the coronavirus. The decision will come into force on March 30. The restrictions will last until April 12, Volkswagen said in a statement.
The company also cited declining demand and the risk of missing parts as factors in its decision to halt production.
Another German carmaker also working in Mexico, BMW, said in a statement late Friday that it will extend a planned Easter stop at its plant in San Luis Potosi state. The stop should begin on March 28th and last until at least April 19th.
The decisions of the two automakers follow other measures widely adopted by companies in Mexico, including an emphasis on working from home if possible, as well as travel restrictions and face-to-face group meetings.
