Bridgestone Corp. and other Japanese companies said Friday they will suspend operations in Mexico until Tuesday at the request of the Mexican government, which is asking agencies and businesses to do so to help contain a deadly new influenza.
Bridgestone said four plants that produce tires and relevant materials will be closed. The plants have nine Japanese employees on hand.
Canon Inc. said it has ordered all 219 employees at its Mexican sales arm to stay at home during the period. Senior officials there are to keep tabs on the health of their subordinates before resuming business Wednesday.