Amsterdam: A Dutch court has ordered a formal investigation into the management of semiconductor company Nexperia BV, deepening a dispute that has drawn attention across Europe and China.
The decision was issued by the Amsterdam Enterprise Chamber, which handles corporate governance cases in the Netherlands. The court said there are sufficient reasons to examine possible mismanagement within the company.
Judges also upheld earlier rulings that suspended former chief executive Zhang Xuezheng. He is also the founder of the Chinese technology group Wingtech, which owns Nexperia. The court confirmed that control of the company will remain with its current European management during the investigation.
According to the ruling, the measures are necessary to bring stability to the company. The court said internal conflicts and legal battles have affected relationships within the firm and may have disrupted production and deliveries to customers.
The investigation will look into concerns that certain strategic decisions were taken without proper consultation and whether there were conflicts of interest between the Dutch company and its Chinese parent group. Wingtech has previously argued that its actions were part of normal business strategy and were aimed at strengthening the company’s position in key markets.
The case comes at a time when semiconductor companies are under global pressure. Chips produced by Nexperia are widely used in cars and other electronic devices. Any uncertainty in leadership or ownership can affect supply chains, especially in Europe’s automotive sector.
The dispute has also taken on a geopolitical tone. Chinese officials have expressed concern over the legal actions in the Netherlands and have called for a cooperative solution. At the same time, European authorities have been increasingly cautious about foreign influence in critical technology sectors.
The investigation ordered by the court is expected to take several months. Until a final decision is made, the temporary governance structure will remain in place.
The outcome of the probe could have lasting consequences not only for Nexperia but also for the broader relationship between European technology firms and their foreign investors.