Nexperia, Wingtech set for fresh face-off in January with US$8 billion at stake
Dutch chipmaker’s Chinese owner warns of multi-track legal action, seeking full control of the firm and damages for improper seizure amid supply-chain tensions
Dutch chipmaker Nexperia and its Chinese parent, Wingtech Technology, are set for another showdown in early 2026, as the legal battle over control of the semiconductor firm intensifies.
The two sides will face off before the Dutch Enterprise Chamber on January 14, a court representative told the Post on Tuesday, speaking on condition of anonymity.
The hearing aims to determine whether there were valid reasons to doubt the sound management of Nexperia before the chamber’s ruling in early October, according to a Nexperia spokesman who also declined to be named.
Wingtech, however, is escalating its counterattack. The company is preparing a “multi-track legal strategy” that – aside from the chamber hearing – includes filing objections against the administrative order of the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and lodging an appeal before the Dutch Supreme Court, Wingtech said in a statement to the Post on Tuesday.
Crucially, the strategy involves preparations for bilateral investment treaty (BIT) international arbitrations. Wingtech intends to seek compensation equivalent to the full value of Nexperia – around US$8 billion – if the issue is not settled by April 15, the statement said, with the company urging Beijing to continue supporting its fight to regain control of Nexperia Netherlands.
It is puzzling that, in the face of global industry anxiety, the Dutch side remains indifferent and stubborn
The saga has become a flashpoint in broader geopolitical tensions after the Dutch government took the unusual step of seizing control of Nexperia on September 30. Citing national security concerns, officials invoked a law that had lain dormant since 1952. Beijing retaliated by choking off chip flows, disrupting automotive supply chains.
On Tuesday, Wingtech’s statement said: “As a Chinese company that has made substantial strategic investments in the Netherlands, Wingtech’s experience concerns not only its own interests, but also the confidence of Chinese overseas investors in the fairness and predictability of the international investment environment.”