Dhaka, Oct. 20 -- A little-known Dutch chipmaker, Nexperia, has become the center of a growing trade dispute that threatens to disrupt global car production and push vehicle prices even higher.

The company, which produces essential automotive components, is facing regulatory and geopolitical hurdles that could halt the supply of critical chips used in millions of vehicles worldwide.

Nexperia makes transistors, diodes, and other semiconductors vital for modern automobiles.

These chips control a wide range of vehicle functions, from adjusting seats and managing fuel injection to operating braking systems.

Without them, cars cannot be completed, making the chips as essential as engines or tires.

The company ships over 110 billion produc...