Government Exercises Emergency Powers Over Security Concerns
The Dutch government has assumed control of Nexperia, a semiconductor manufacturer majority-owned by China’s Wingtech Technology, citing serious governance issues and threats to national security. The Ministry of Economic Affairs confirmed that it had activated special legal provisions to restrict the company’s management authority and install interim supervisors. Nexperia, headquartered in Nijmegen, has operated under Chinese ownership since Wingtech’s acquisition in 2019.
Authorities Aim to Secure Key Technological Assets
Officials stated that the move was designed to protect the Netherlands’ access to vital semiconductor technology and prevent sensitive expertise from being transferred overseas. While strategic oversight has shifted to state-appointed officials, the company’s production and workforce are expected to remain unaffected. The decision reflects a growing European determination to tighten oversight of foreign investment in high-tech sectors seen as essential to national and economic stability.
Wingtech Challenges the Intervention
Wingtech has strongly opposed the Dutch action, accusing the government of political bias and unfair treatment of Chinese investors. The company said it operates fully within Dutch and EU legal frameworks and announced its intention to contest the decision through legal proceedings. The intervention marks the first use of the Netherlands’ emergency economic powers against a foreign-controlled technology firm, signaling a tougher stance on safeguarding strategic industries.
