TOKYO - When Carlos Ghosn arrived at Nissan in 1999, suppliers took the brunt of cost-cutting that helped revive the automaker. Two decades later, his successors are trying for another turnaround without the ability to pressure parts makers.

Nissan Motor Corp, like rivals, has been hit hard as the pandemic sapped global demand. But Japan's No.3 automaker has another problem: an aging line-up out of step with changing tastes, including growing appetite for sport utility vehicles in the United States and luxury brands in China.

Two suppliers of cloth masks being sent by the Japanese government to all households say they will recall undistributed items.

Pharmaceutical maker Kowa and trading house Itochu made the announcement following complaints about masks that have already been sent. Many recipients say the masks were stained or contaminated with human hair and dust.