Japan consumers wait months for washing machines, air conditioners

May 30 (Nikkei) - Home appliances remain in short supply across Japan due to the global semiconductor crunch and supply chain disruptions tied to Beijing's zero-COVID policy, as companies that have resumed production at factories in China say it will take time to reach normal operations.

"Delivery delays began to emerge in May, and we have been telling customers that they will have to wait one to two months for delivery," said a sales staffer at an electronics retail shop in Tokyo.

Microwaves and rice cookers on store shelves carry signs saying that new orders are suspended due to a halt in shipments. Some appliances already owned may be difficult to repair because parts no longer are readily obtained.

Washing machines are particularly mired in short supply. One retailer website shows that 70% of the 40 drum-type machines listed are out of stock, with tags saying "items will be shipped as soon as they arrive." Some machines, including those from Hitachi and Sharp, are scheduled to ship in August or later.

About 30% of refrigerator models also are cold out of stock.

Air conditioners are feeling the heat as well. Supply was already unstable due to the chip shortage, but the approaching summer season has made the problem clear. ...continue reading

Source: ANNnewsCH

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