Kumamoto earthquake impacts 15.7% of Japanese companies

A survey by Teikoku Databank reveals that 15.7% of companies have been affected by the Kumamoto earthquake that occurred on July 28, 2026. The impact is significantly higher in the Kyushu region, where over 53% of surveyed businesses reported disruptions.

Damages include physical destruction of facilities and equipment, as well as indirect consequences such as reduced sales opportunities and delays in procurement and shipping. The earthquake has caused supply chain issues, including production halts in the automotive sector and delays in construction materials. Notably, the presence of many non-local companies in areas like Kikuyo Town, including TSMC's semiconductor manufacturing base, suggests potential ripple effects across national supply chains.

In response to the disaster, 84.6% of companies intend to implement or review disaster prevention measures. The most prioritized actions include improving internal communication networks and establishing evacuation manuals to ensure human safety and rapid initial response.