Some European auto parts plants have suspended output and German carmaker BMW warned its supplier network was affected by shortages of rare earths, as concerns about the damage from China's restrictions on critical mineral exports deepen.

A group representing auto suppliers in the United States called on Wednesday for immediate action to address China's restricted exports of rare earths and other minerals, warning the issue could quickly disrupt auto parts production.

Automakers and parts suppliers are shifting supply chains and warning of production shutdowns amid a Chinese crackdown on rare earth metals and magnets.