Goodyear suspends operations at two locations in China

Akron, Ohio – Goodyear has suspended operations at two of its operations in China over concerns about the spread of the coronavirus.

The measures at the company’s Chinese HQ in Shanghai and tire plant in Pulandian, Liaonging Province will stay in place until at least 9 Feb.

The Akron tire maker said it would continue "to work with the Chinese government to determine the appropriate time to reopen these facilities."

While Goodyear did not say how many employees are affected, employment is listed as 1,900 at the factory in Pulandian – also the location of a company development centre.

Goodyear also has suspended travel to and from China except for "business-critical" trips.

"We have advised all associates worldwide to consider if their objectives for any near-term travel can instead be met through technology," the company said in a statement.

"We are actively encouraging our associates to follow CDC (Centers for Disease Control) guidelines for preventing the spread of respiratory viruses," the company said. 

"Our Goodyear associates located in the Asia-Pacific region are receiving specific local guidance as the situation evolves there," the statement added.