E.U. Says China Confirms Nexperia Chip Export Resumptions
The European Commission said Saturday that Chinese authorities had confirmed a partial resumption of Nexperia chips, easing a blockage that has alarmed carmakers.
The dispute erupted in September when the Dutch government effectively took control of Nexperia, which is based in the Netherlands but whose parent company is China's Wingtech.
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China responded by banning re-exports of the firm's chips, triggering warnings from automakers of production stoppages as the components are critical to onboard electronics.
But Beijing announced during the weekend it would exempt some chips from the export ban, reportedly part of a trade deal agreed by President Xi Jinping and his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump.
The exports will be allowed as long as the chips are only for "civilian use", Sefcovic added, saying the measure would take effect "immediately."
Talks are continuing with China on finding a "lasting, stable, predictable framework that ensure the full restoration of semiconductor flows," he added.
The chips are made in Europe but then sent to China for finishing, before being re-exported to clients in Europe and other markets.
Volkswagen, Europe's biggest carmaker, had warned of production stoppages if the crisis dragged on, while smaller firms were reported to be preparing to cut working hours.
The Netherlands cited national security concerns when it moved to take control of Nexperia, accusing the firm's CEO of mismanagement.