Volkswagen ready to deal with China metal curbs; chip makers play down fallout

News Snapshot:

Open this photo in gallery: A Volkswagen logo during the New York International Auto Show, on April 5.DAVID DEE DELGADO/Reuters Volkswagen is monitoring metals markets after China imposed export restrictions on two minor metals used in semiconductors and electric vehicles, it said on Thursday, while some chip makers played down fears of shortages. Fears are growing that more curbs on strategic exports including rare earths could be coming after a top Chinese trade adviser said on Wednesday that the limits on gallium and germanium, effective Aug. 1, were “just a start.” China’s abrupt announcement on Monday of controls from Aug....