In a clear sign of rising tensions over semiconductor control, the Chinese mainland’s Ministry of Commerce has publicly slammed the Netherlands for intervening in the operations of Nexperia, a key chip manufacturer and overseas subsidiary of Wingtech.
Spokesperson He Yongqian accused the Dutch government of “overstretching the national security concept” and violating basic market principles. The move, he warned, could backfire by undermining the Netherlands’ own business environment and damaging trust among global investors.
These remarks follow a statement from the China Semiconductor Industry Association, which also voiced strong opposition to The Hague’s actions. Officials in Beijing argue that meddling in Nexperia’s internal affairs breaks the spirit of contract and could destabilize the broader semiconductor supply chain on which countless industries rely.
Why It Matters
- Global Supply Risks: Semiconductors power everything from smartphones to electric vehicles. Disruptions can ripple through international markets.
- Investor Confidence: Market players watch closely for policy shifts that affect cross-border investments.
- Tech Diplomacy: The dispute highlights growing geopolitical tensions around strategic technologies.
China has urged the Netherlands to respect economic autonomy, uphold the stability of Sino-Dutch ties, and create a transparent environment for Chinese investors. The Ministry of Commerce affirmed that the Chinese mainland will take necessary measures to safeguard the lawful rights and interests of its enterprises if intervention continues.
As global demand for chips soars and nations jockey for technological leadership, the clash over Nexperia underscores how semiconductor policy is rapidly becoming a front line in international relations.
Reference(s):
China blasts Dutch interference in semiconductor manufacturer Nexperia
cgtn.com
