China's Ministry of Commerce issued a sharp rebuke to the Netherlands on Thursday over what it called "unwarranted interference" in the operations of semiconductor manufacturer Nexperia, a subsidiary of Shanghai-based Wingtech. The dispute highlights growing tensions in global tech supply chains and raises questions about market fairness.
Spokesperson He Yongqian accused Dutch authorities of "overstretching national security concepts" to justify intrusive interventions, stating: "This direct meddling in corporate affairs violates international market principles and contractual obligations. Such actions will ultimately harm the Netherlands' reputation as a business-friendly destination."
The criticism follows moves by Dutch regulators to scrutinize Nexperia's operations, prompting a rare joint statement from the China Semiconductor Industry Association opposing the measures. Analysts suggest the friction stems from broader geopolitical competition in advanced chip technologies.
Beijing emphasized the strategic importance of maintaining stable semiconductor supply chains, urging the Netherlands to "correct wrong practices" and protect Chinese investors' rights. The ministry warned it would take "necessary measures" to defend Chinese enterprises' interests, though specifics remain undisclosed.
With China accounting for 15% of global semiconductor consumption and Dutch firms like ASML holding key chipmaking technologies, this standoff could ripple through international tech markets. Observers warn escalating trade barriers might further fragment the $500 billion global semiconductor industry.
