A unit of Jiangxi Changhe Auto will continue to make cars after employees launched a three-day protest against a plan by its parent, Changan Auto, to stop manufacturing activities at the smaller Chinese company.

Changhe Suzuki, a joint venture between Changhe and Japan's Suzuki Motor, will remain in operation and keep its brand while its future expansion stay unchanged, said yesterday's joint statement issued by Chang'an and the government of Jingdezhen, in Jiangxi Province, where Changhe is based.

Changan Auto, which acquired Changhe during an industrial reshuffle in 2009, has reportedly filed a proposal to China's top economic planner to shift the car manufacturing activities of Changhe Suzuki to another affiliate, which triggered outcry among Changhe's workers who worried that they may lose their jobs.

Several Changhe employees at the Jingdezhen plant have walked out since Friday, demanding that Changhe be independent, according to company insiders.