Published by Global Banking & Finance Review®
Posted on October 23, 2025
1 min readLast updated: January 21, 2026
Add as preferred source on GoogleDutch PM Schoof discussed Nexperia ownership concerns with German Chancellor Merz, addressing intellectual property issues at the EU summit.
BRUSSELS (Reuters) -Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof said he discussed the situation related to Chinese-owned chip supplier Nexperia with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on the sidelines of the EU summit in Brussels.
The Dutch government seized control of Nexperia, an important supplier of basic chips used in cars, on September 30, citing intellectual property concerns due to its Chinese ownership. In response, the Chinese government banned exports of the company's finished products, which could disrupt German car production.
"I simply explained (the situation). ... There had been a lot of misunderstandings. So I said that the action was aimed specifically at that rogue CEO," Schoof said, adding that after his explanation, there was more "understanding for what the Netherlands had done."
(Reporting by Charlotte Van Campenhout; Editing by Leslie Adler)
Nexperia is a semiconductor company that specializes in producing essential chips used in various applications, including automotive technology. The company is owned by a Chinese entity, which has raised concerns regarding intellectual property.
Basic chips are fundamental electronic components used in various devices, including cars. They are crucial for the functionality of electronic systems within vehicles, impacting performance and safety.
Intellectual property refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions, designs, and brands. It is protected by law through patents, copyrights, and trademarks, allowing creators to control the use of their inventions.
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