Mazda has suspended production of vehicles for the Middle East due to a logistics crisis

The Japanese automaker Mazda has temporarily halted production of vehicles destined for the Middle Eastern market due to the blockade of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. 

This was reported by NHK.

According to media reports from April 6, 2026, the decision was prompted by the escalation of military hostilities in the region, which has made it impossible to safely deliver products to key customers, including Saudi Arabia and Israel. The company previously exported about 30,000 vehicles to the region annually, but is now considering redirecting its production capacity to the European market.

The logistics crisis has forced other Japanese auto giants to cut production volumes for the Middle East: Toyota will reduce output by a total of 44,000 units in March and April, while Nissan has cut its plans by 1,200 cars per month. The manufacturers’ next steps will depend on the stabilization of the situation in the strait and the restoration of maritime security. 

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that he had received a request from the new leader of the Iranian regime asking for a ceasefire. Trump is willing to consider this possibility only on the condition that the Strait of Hormuz is fully opened for the free and safe passage of ships.

As a reminder, the IRGC announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and is threatening a “harsh response” to ships.

The Strait of Hormuz could also become the “Trump Strait.”