Japanese automakers have accelerated moves to trim domestic output as much as possible amid the yen's prolonged strength and dwindling domestic demand.
Industry analysts say expanding overseas production is the first step Japanese automakers can take to improve earnings, since the strong yen erodes profits from exports, and to benefit further from growing overseas markets.
Over the weekend, Toyota Motor Corp. announced it will transfer Japanese production of its North America-bound Yaris compact to France next May. It will be the auto giant's first time exporting cars to North America from Europe.