Semiconductor Showdown: Sino-Dutch Tensions Over Nexperia Seizure

China's commerce ministry criticized Dutch Economy Minister Vincent Karremans' defense of the Netherlands' seizure of Dutch-based, Chinese-owned chipmaker Nexperia. The dispute threatens global supply chains, with China imposing export controls as tensions escalate ahead of Dutch officials' visit to Beijing for talks.

The recent seizure of Chinese-owned Nexperia by the Netherlands has sparked tensions between the two nations, prompting critical remarks from China's commerce ministry toward Dutch Economy Minister Vincent Karremans. The minister's defense of the decision exacerbates a geopolitical stand-off surrounding technology transfers and semiconductor supply chains.

Following the confiscation, China imposed strict export controls impacting automotive supply lines globally, citing concerns about the Dutch influence on technology transfers. A lengthy statement from China's commerce ministry conveyed 'extreme disappointment' with Karremans' comments and highlighted numerous grievances with the Dutch government's actions.

As Dutch officials prepare to visit Beijing in search of a compromise, China's commerce ministry urged The Hague to offer 'constructive proposals.' The conflict centers around Nexperia's refusal to ship critical components to Chinese buyers, which Beijing claims poses a systemic risk to automakers and the semiconductor supply chain.

(With inputs from agencies.)