Nissan Sales Edge Higher Despite Japan Drop

Nissan reported a modest increase in global vehicle sales in January 2026, as gains in overseas markets offset a double-digit decline in Japan. The automaker sold 272,782 vehicles worldwide during the month, including Nissan and Infiniti brands, marking a slight year-over-year increase. The performance underscores Nissan’s continued reliance on international markets amid uneven regional demand and ongoing adjustments to its manufacturing footprint.

Sales in Japan fell 11% to 35,287 units, reflecting weaker domestic demand at the start of the year. In contrast, overseas sales rose 2.8% to 217,316 units, supporting the overall global result. 

China delivered one of Nissan’s strongest performances in January. Sales in the market increased more than 10% to 50,033 units, providing a key boost to overseas growth. North America also posted solid gains, with regional sales rising 7.2% to 102,982 units. Within the region, US sales climbed 5% to 71,248 units, while Mexico recorded a 22% increase to 24,804 units. These gains were partially offset by a 10% decline in Canada, where sales fell to 6,798 units.

Europe remained a weak spot in Nissan’s global sales portfolio. Deliveries in the region declined 13% year over year to 26,185 units, reflecting softer demand and intensifying competitive pressures. In other markets combined, sales decreased 4% to 38,116 units. The mixed regional performance points to continued volatility in global automotive demand, shaped by economic conditions, consumer sentiment, and policy developments.

On the production side, Nissan reported a 7.2% decline in global output in January, with total production falling to 222,931 vehicles. Output in Japan decreased 9.5% to 47,168 units, while overseas production dropped 6.6% to 175,763 units. The overall reduction contrasts with selective increases in certain markets, suggesting a rebalancing of manufacturing activity rather than a uniform slowdown.

Production trends varied significantly by country. Output in the United States rose more than 21% to 43,417 units, and production in the United Kingdom increased 13% to 25,468 units. These gains were offset by a sharp decline in Mexico, where output fell 31% to 42,115 units. Nissan said the reduction reflects restructuring of its regional production following the introduction of US import tariffs last year. Production in other countries combined declined more than 8% to 20,322 units.

Exports from Japan increased during the month, rising 19% to 27,530 units. Shipments to North America grew 26% to 14,318 units, reinforcing the region’s role as a key destination for Japanese-built vehicles. There were no exports from Japan to Europe in January, while exports to other markets rose more than 26% to 13,212 units.