China mulls export exemptions for Nexperia chips amid carmaker turmoil

The improper interference of the Dutch government in internal business affairs has led to the current global supply chain turmoil, said a spokesperson of China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) on Saturday, in response to a question about issues related to the semiconductor manufacturer Nexperia, a key supplier to the car industry.

"As a responsible major country, China fully takes into account the safety and stability of both domestic and international supply chains," said the spokesperson, noting that companies facing practical difficulties are welcomed to contact the ministry or local commerce authorities.

The Ministry of Commerce will comprehensively consider the actual situation of affected companies and may grant exemptions for eligible exports, said the spokesperson.

Earlier this month, the China Semiconductor Industry Association issued a statement expressing opposition to the Dutch government's intervention in automotive chipmaker Nexperia, an overseas subsidiary of Chinese company Wingtech. The MOFCOM criticized the Netherlands' actions, emphasizing its firm opposition to the Dutch side's overstretching of the national security concept and direct intervention in the company's internal affairs.

The ministry stated that the Dutch move has violated the spirit of contract and market principles, which will ultimately backfire and damage the Netherlands' own business environment.