Netherlands Ends State Intervention at Chinese-Owned Nexperia, Clearing Path for Chip Exports to Resume

The Dutch government has halted its state intervention at Chinese-owned chipmaker Nexperia, signalling progress in resolving a months-long dispute with Beijing that had raised concerns across the global automotive industry.

Economy Minister Vincent Karremans said the decision followed “constructive talks” with Chinese authorities, calling the move “a show of goodwill.” The Netherlands had invoked a Cold War-era law in September to take control of Nexperia, citing security concerns over the availability of critical chip technology during emergencies.

In a letter to parliament, Karremans said Beijing now appears to be allowing companies in Europe and other countries to resume exports of Nexperia chips, a development he described as “an important step.”

The dispute had escalated after China responded by blocking shipments of Nexperia’s finished products, worsening chip shortages already pressuring automakers worldwide. Nexperia, though headquartered in the Netherlands, is owned by China’s Wingtech.

The Dutch economic affairs ministry said it was "the right moment" to suspend the order and continue talks with China in the coming weeks.

China’s Commerce Ministry called the Dutch move a “first step in the right direction” but said deeper issues must be addressed to tackle ongoing “turmoil and chaos” in the global semiconductor supply chain.

EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic welcomed the development, saying it would help stabilize strategic supply chains and pledged continued engagement with international partners.

European automaker stocks were mixed following the announcement: Stellantis edged up 0.1%, while Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW saw slight declines.