QUESTION 2 (20 Marks)

Panasonic's new U.S. factory will face a number of opportunities as well as threats in the operating environment. In this regard, Panasonic would need to marshal its strengths and address its weaknesses by making long-term managerial strategic decisions that confer competitive advantage in its operations.

2.1 Undertake a meaningful SWOT analysis of Panasonic's upcoming U.S.-based EV battery factory. From the article, highlight TWO (2) points each in terms of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with the new U.S. factory. (10 marks)

2.2 Apart from the location strategic decision, discuss any FIVE (5) long-term managerial strategic decisions that Panasonic would grapple with in building the new U.S.-based electric vehicle battery factory. (10 marks)