The American automobile manufacturer Ford has shut down a number of its local assembly plants starting from today. Reports state that this suspension is due to the global shortage of semiconductors.

Spokeswoman Kelli Felker confirmed to Reuters that Ford will idle production at its Ohio Assembly Plant as well as the production line for the Transit van at its Kansas City Assembly Plant. It will also operate with reduced shifts at its Kentucky, Chicago and Michigan truck assembly plants.

Last week, Ford suspended production at eight plants in North America due to the shortage. Ford previously said the current quarter would be its low point for vehicle production due to the chip shortage.

According to earlier reports, production at factories in Mexico and Canada will be suspended as well. Reports also state that Ford suffered a 12% drop in stock in its fourth-quarter earnings.