Overview
- China’s commerce ministry said it will consider and grant case-by-case exemptions to its export ban and invited affected firms to apply.
- Multiple outlets report the move follows Xi–Trump talks in South Korea, with reports also suggesting a temporary U.S. pause of its 50% subsidiary rule, though officials have not detailed terms.
- Nexperia Netherlands halted wafer shipments to its Dongguan plant on Oct. 26 over alleged payment issues, while the China unit called the move irresponsible, said it has sufficient inventories, and is qualifying new wafer suppliers.
- Automakers and suppliers warn of production risks because Nexperia’s basic chips are widely used in vehicles and switching to alternatives requires time for requalification.
- EU officials are pursuing a diplomatic fix as Nexperia explores capacity outside China, including plans to expand production in Malaysia to bolster future supply resilience.