Nexperia has become one of the most sensitive and consequential cases in the Netherlands–China relationship. At Vereniging Nederland China, we are very aware of this and believe the topic deserves nuance, facts and open debate.
That’s why we recently contributed to two in-depth conversations, each from a different angle, but both addressing the same underlying question:
How does Europe navigate economic power, security concerns and global competition in a changing world order?
🎙 Breinhoven podcast (Studio 040, Eindhoven)
In this episode of Breinhoven, host Silvester Klaasman explores whether Europe risks becoming a “beautiful museum” — or whether it can regain economic clout.
With Frans Paul van der Putten (historicus en China expert) and Aldo Spaanjaars (VNC bestuurslid en China business expert), the discussion touches on ASML, Nexperia, U.S. pressure, Chinese industrial strategy, “wolf culture,” and what European CEOs may need to relearn about pragmatism, resilience, agility and long-term thinking.
You can listen to the Breinhoven podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/50EjUESWjSkLJNNrcjMjm0
🎙 VNC China Café Podcast – The Nexperia case
The 15 December 2025 China Café, moderated by Cindy Shao and hosted by Lianne Baaij, focused fully on the Nexperia affair.
With Charles Smit, former General Counsel and Head Corporate Affairs at Nexperia and René Raaijmakers, journalist and founder Bits&Chips, the conversation went beyond headlines, unpacking the legal, geopolitical and industrial realities — and what this case means for the future of Europe’s high-tech ecosystem.
You can listen to the China Café podcast here:
Bekijk op YouTube:Both conversations aim to replace polarization with understanding, and emotion with insight.
🎧 If you care about Europe’s technological sovereignty, China–Europe relations, or the future of high-tech industry in the Netherlands, these are well worth your time.
