Berlin: Nexperia, a Chinese-owned semiconductor company based in the Netherlands, has restarted some chip shipments after weeks of supply disruptions that affected the European car industry. The development has been welcomed by German officials and automakers as a sign of easing tensions between the Netherlands and China over technology control.
The chipmaker, which produces billions of small but essential semiconductors used in vehicles and electronic devices, had its supply chain disrupted following a dispute between the Dutch and Chinese governments. The Dutch authorities had taken temporary control of Nexperia earlier this year, citing national security concerns related to technology transfers and Chinese ownership.
In response, China had restricted exports from Nexperia’s facilities, worsening the shortage of key components needed by automakers. The suspension of shipments caused significant strain on the car industry, forcing some manufacturers and suppliers to slow down or temporarily halt production.
According to auto executives, Nexperia has now resumed limited deliveries after Chinese authorities granted export exemptions. Germany’s Economy Ministry welcomed the move, describing it as a positive step toward restoring stability in the European automotive supply chain.
Industry sources said that companies such as Aumovio SE and other car parts suppliers have already received initial batches of chips from Nexperia’s Chinese operations. However, experts warn that the situation remains fragile and full supply recovery may take time.
The Dutch government indicated it is considering scaling back some of the emergency controls imposed on Nexperia as diplomatic talks between Beijing and Amsterdam progress.
Nexperia’s chips are small, low-cost components, but they play a vital role in modern vehicles, powering systems like sensors and control units. The recent disruption highlighted how geopolitical tensions can quickly affect global manufacturing, especially in Europe’s car industry, which depends heavily on stable semiconductor supplies.
Automakers across Europe are now watching closely to see whether the resumed shipments will continue without further interruptions. Many companies are also exploring ways to diversify their chip sources to avoid future supply shocks.
While the restart of shipments marks a step toward normalization, industry leaders remain cautious, calling for long-term solutions to ensure the resilience of Europe’s semiconductor supply chain.