Nissan Motor Co plans to cut global vehicle production by 30% by the end of December as falling demand due to the COVID-19 complicates the company's efforts to restore profitability, Reuters reported, citing sources.

The second-largest Japanese automaker expects to produce about 2.6 million vehicles between April and December, up from 3.7 million in the same period last year, sources said.

Global automakers have faced difficulties after their factories were closed earlier this year to stem the spread of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Auto dealerships were also closed in many countries, resulting in a sharp drop in car sales between March and May, although sales declines slowed in June.