Mazda, Ford to dissolve Chinese partnership -Nikkei

Mazda Motor Corp. will dissolve its partnership with Ford Motor Co. in China by 2012, giving Mazda leeway to independently make decisions such as a production increases, the Nikkei newspaper reported, citing unidentified people.

Mazda's venture with Ford and China's Chana Auto Co. manufactures vehicles in Nanjing and Chongqing, the Japanese- language newspaper said. The companies agreed in principle they will spin off the Nanjing factory, which Mazda and Chana will own, the Nikkei said.

Ford and the Chinese company will operate the Chongqing plant, according to the newspaper.