Volkswagen warns workers of potential stoppages as chip crunch looms

Core Points - Volkswagen has indicated that it cannot rule out production stoppages due to supply chain issues stemming from a dispute over Dutch chip maker Nexperia, which poses a threat to Europe's auto sector [1][2][3] - The Dutch government seized control of Nexperia last month, raising concerns about intellectual property, while China has restricted exports of essential products needed by European car manufacturers [2][7] - Volkswagen has communicated to its staff that, while production has not yet been affected by chip shortages, the situation is dynamic and could change in the short term [2][3] Production Impact - Reports suggest that Volkswagen may plan production stoppages starting next Wednesday, initially affecting the Golf series and subsequently other models [4] - The company is currently monitoring the situation closely and has not confirmed any specific plans regarding production halts [4][6] - Volkswagen will temporarily pause production of its Golf and Tiguan models at its Wolfsburg plant on Friday for an unrelated inventory issue, clarifying that this is not connected to chip supply problems [5] Industry Context - The ongoing dispute over Nexperia adds to existing global trade tensions impacting European carmakers, including increased U.S. import tariffs and Chinese export restrictions on rare earths [7] - Other automakers, such as BMW and Mercedes, are also taking steps to secure their production in light of the Nexperia situation [7] - Recent discussions between Dutch and Chinese economy ministers did not yield a resolution to the Nexperia impasse [8]