EU Welcomes China’s Partial Resumption of Nexperia Chip Exports

The European Commission announced on Saturday that Chinese authorities had confirmed a partial resumption of Nexperia chip exports, easing a supply blockage that had raised alarms among carmakers.

The dispute began in September when the Dutch government effectively took control of Nexperia, a company based in the Netherlands whose parent firm is China’s Wingtech. In response, China banned re-exports of the company’s chips, prompting warnings from automakers about potential production stoppages, as these components are essential for onboard electronics.

Over the weekend, Beijing announced it would exempt some chips from the export ban, reportedly as part of a trade agreement reached between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump.

EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic welcomed the development on X, stating: “The confirmation provided today… regarding the further simplification of export procedures for Nexperia chips destined for EU and global clients is very welcome.” He added that exports would be permitted as long as the chips are used solely for “civilian use,” and that the measure would take effect “immediately.”

Sefcovic noted that discussions with China are ongoing to establish a “lasting, stable, predictable framework that ensures the full restoration of semiconductor flows.”

Germany’s Aumovio, a major automotive supplier, had already announced on Friday that it had received permission from Chinese authorities to resume Nexperia chip exports. These chips are manufactured in Europe, then sent to China for finishing before being re-exported to clients across Europe and other global markets.

Volkswagen, Europe’s largest carmaker, had warned of production halts if the crisis persisted, while smaller firms were reportedly preparing to reduce working hours.

The Netherlands cited national security concerns in taking control of Nexperia, accusing the company’s CEO of mismanagement, which triggered the subsequent Chinese export restrictions.