After posting a 3.9% year on year unit volume fall in the US in July, Honda Motor sales in China plunged 22.7% the same month, reportedly the automaker’s biggest decline there in 17 months.

That, according to Reuters, cast doubts over Honda’s full year sales target in China.

Year to date volume rose just 6.9% to 392,959 cars versus a target of 18.9% to 900,000 for 2014. Through two local joint ventures, Honda sold 39,543 automobiles in China last month.

A Honda spokeswoman told the news agency tough competition and a seasonal demand decline were among the causes but claimed sales would rebound in the second half after new model launches (which include a small utility vehicle and the Fit/Jazz crossover variant).

Toyota’s July China sales fell 7.6% year on year with officials blaming the start of production of the redesigned, recently launched Corolla.

Japan’s Nikkei business daily reported in May Honda planned to double the number of car models it sells in China over the next two years to increase market share, Reuters noted.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.