Tokyo (January 5, 2005) – Bridgestone Corporation announced today that it has contributed ¥100 million (about $900,000) to support relief efforts in nations affected by the December 26 Indian Ocean tsunami. The company made the donation on behalf of the Bridgestone Group through the Japan Red Cross, and Bridgestone has instructed that organization to allocate the funds at its discretion. In addition, Bridgestone subsidiaries in Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and India will make separate contributions to local relief efforts.

The contributions by Bridgestone to the tsunami relief effort reflect the company’s longstanding commitment to Southeast and South Asia. Rangsit Plant, the oldest existing plant in the region, began producing tires in Thailand in 1969. The Bridgestone Group now operates tire plants there and in Indonesia and India. Group companies also manufacture tire materials and diversified products at several sites in the region, and Bridgestone owns two rubber estates in Indonesia.