Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao has called on the Netherlands to resolve operational challenges facing semiconductor firm Nexperia, emphasizing the need to protect Chinese investors' rights and maintain global supply chain stability. The appeal came during a Tuesday phone discussion with Dutch Economic Affairs Minister Vincent Karremans, initiated at the latter's request.
Wang stressed that China values its economic partnership with the Netherlands but expressed concern over recent Dutch measures affecting Nexperia, warning they 'severely impact global industrial and supply chains.' He urged Amsterdam to prioritize contractual obligations, market principles, and legal frameworks while seeking solutions.
Karremans acknowledged the importance of bilateral trade relations, pledging to maintain communication with Chinese counterparts. The exchange highlights growing tensions in the semiconductor sector, where Nexperia – a former NXP subsidiary acquired by China's Wingtech in 2018 – has faced regulatory scrutiny in Europe.
As nations grapple with balancing economic security and technological collaboration, this dialogue underscores the delicate diplomacy required to sustain critical cross-border tech investments. The outcome could set precedents for how Western governments engage with Chinese-owned enterprises in strategic industries.
