Consolidated operating profit totaled 233.11 billion. yen ($1.94 billion), up more than 12 percent from the 207.46 billion yen ($1.72 billion) in 1997.

"In spite of continuing economic challenges in Japan and the rest of Asia, Bridgestone's continuing growth in operating profitability was due in significant part to excellent results in North America and Europe. Demand in the U.S. continued to be vigorous and the economy remained strong," the company said. The U.S. subsidiary, Bridgestone/Firestone Inc.,reported 1998 sales of $7.4 billion, up from $7.1billion the year before, and net earnings of $285 million, $78 million more than in 1997,Bridgestone said.