Dutch Government Seizes Control of Nexperia Amid Security Concerns
Amsterdam, Tuesday, 14 October 2025.
The Dutch government has taken control of the Chinese-owned semiconductor company Nexperia to protect national security, highlighting tensions in global technology competition.
Implications of Dutch Government Control
The Dutch government’s decision to seize control of Nexperia, a semiconductor manufacturer headquartered in Nijmegen, Netherlands, is rooted in concerns over national security and the protection of critical technology infrastructure. The intervention is part of a broader strategy to ensure that technological knowledge and capabilities remain within the European Union, safeguarding against potential technology transfers to foreign entities, particularly those linked to China [1][2].
The Role of Nexperia in the Semiconductor Industry
Nexperia is known for its production of metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) and other semiconductor components, with a reported output of 100 billion units and revenue of $2.1 billion in 2022 [5]. These components are crucial in a wide range of electronic devices, making Nexperia a significant player in the global semiconductor market. The company was originally part of NXP Semiconductors, a legacy of Philips’ semiconductor division, emphasizing its deep roots in the European technology landscape [5].
Geopolitical and Economic Tensions
The intervention by the Dutch government comes amid escalating geopolitical tensions between Europe and China, particularly in the technology sector. China’s Wingtech, which owns Nexperia, has been on the U.S. entity list since December 2024, due to concerns over its acquisition strategies for sensitive technological capabilities [1][2]. The Dutch government’s use of the Goods Availability Act, a Cold War-era legislation, underscores the gravity of the situation and the lengths to which the Netherlands is willing to go to protect its technological sovereignty [3][4].
International Reactions and Future Prospects
The international response to the Dutch government’s actions has been mixed. The China Semiconductor Industry Association has expressed serious concerns, describing the intervention as selective and discriminatory [2]. Meanwhile, Wingtech has indicated that it will pursue legal measures to protect its interests and continue its operations in Europe [4]. As the situation unfolds, the future of Nexperia’s operations and its role in the European semiconductor supply chain remains a critical focus for industry stakeholders and policymakers alike [3][4].