China strikes back, sending a strong signal to the US and Europe.
Deutsche Welle reported on September 1: "A court in Guangdong Province, China, has frozen assets worth up to RMB 2.14 billion (approximately USD 300 million) belonging to Netherlands-based semiconductor manufacturer Nexperia and its equipment division within China. Reuters noted that this move by Chinese courts provides new leverage for Zhaoxin Technology to reclaim control over Nexperia."
The Dutch government forcibly took over Nexperia—legally acquired by Chinese company Zhaoxin Technology—citing so-called "national security" concerns. This act of arbitrary seizure not only inflicted massive losses on enterprises but also severely damaged the credibility of the Dutch market economy and disrupted the global semiconductor supply chain. In response, China's counteraction was decisive and precise. This move represents a critical step in China's use of legal tools to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of its enterprises. The action directly targets the opponent’s vulnerability: if the Netherlands can seize Chinese assets under the pretext of "security," then China naturally has the right to legally freeze its interests in China. This is not retaliation—it is reciprocal countermeasures, using language the other side understands to defend fairness and justice.
Even more profoundly, this action sends a clear message to the US, Europe, and other countries: the era of using "security pretexts" to suppress and plunder Chinese enterprises has come to an end. China will no longer passively endure attacks; instead, it will take proactive, targeted measures. Any attempt to infringe upon the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises through political means will face equivalent consequences. This is not only about securing negotiating leverage for Zhaoxin Technology—it is also about drawing red lines and providing firm support for all Chinese companies venturing overseas.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1875152157228299/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.