Netherlands China Seek Resolution Over Nexperia Chipmaker Dispute

The Dutch government seized control of the chipmaker Nexperia BV, owned by Shanghai-listed Wingtech, citing concerns over technology security, which prompted China to block exports of the company's finished products, disrupting supply chains critical to European car manufacturers. Dutch Economy Minister Vincent Karremans engaged in talks with Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, aiming to find a mutually acceptable solution, but China criticized the Dutch measures as harmful to global industrial stability and urged adherence to market principles and protection of Chinese investors' rights. Inside Nexperia, tensions escalated between its Dutch headquarters and Chinese subsidiary, with conflicting reports about operational disruptions and employee treatment. The European Union's trade chief, Maros Sefcovic, confirmed active communications with both Dutch and Chinese authorities to de-escalate the situation and restore vital supply chains. The dispute underscores the challenges of balancing national security concerns with the stability of international trade and high-volume semiconductor supply chains essential to automotive and electronics industries.