Dutch gov’t takes control of China-owned computer microchipmaker Nexperia

The Dutch government has taken control of Chinese-owned computer chipmaker Nexperia, ratcheting up tensions with Beijing as a global fight brews over technology intellectual property, especially around semiconductors.

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The government said late on Sunday that it has intervened in Nijmegen-headquartered Nexperia, which manufactures chips for cars and consumer electronics. It cited worries about the possible transfer of technology to Nexperia’s Chinese parent company, Wingtech.

The Hague invoked never-before-used powers under a Dutch law known as the “Availability of Goods Act.” The decision led to a 10% fall in Wingtech’s shares in Shanghai on Monday.

The Dutch government will not take ownership of Nexperia, but it will now have the power to reverse or block management decisions it considers harmful. The company’s regular production is continuing.

WINGTECH SAYS DECISION DRIVEN BY ‘GEOPOLITICAL BIAS’

US President Donald J. Trump is ratcheting up pressure on Chinese tech firms as part of a broader trade war that saw him threaten 100% tariffs on China’s exports last week.