P.M. BRIEFING : Weak Japan Sales Upset Honda

Honda Motor Co. Ltd., whose cars have become a hit with U.S. consumers, is getting worried about its weak sales in Japan, industry analysts said today.

Sales in Japan in November totaled 32,960 vehicles, down a sharp 27.9% from a year earlier and marking the second straight monthly fall. Meanwhile, U.S. sales continued to grow strongly, with the Accord remaining the single top-selling model for the second year.

The company plans to increase its sales force and the number of its repair shops in Japan to counteract its decline, he said.