Key facts
- A dual Chinese-Belgian national is in pre-trial detention in Belgium since May.
- He is suspected of semiconductor espionage, allegedly transferring IP and trade secrets.
- The technology involved relates to gallium nitride chips used in EVs, aerospace, and military applications.
- The suspect previously held a senior position at the now-bankrupt Belgian microchip maker Belgan.
- He is also suspected of directing a Chinese company financed by a Chinese investment fund.
- The man was arrested at Zaventem airport while attempting to fly to Beijing.
Prosecutors in Belgium announced that a man with dual Chinese and Belgian nationality has been in pre-trial detention since May, suspected of espionage related to semiconductor technology. The 52-year-old individual previously held a senior role at Belgan, a Belgian producer of gallium nitride semiconductors that went bankrupt in July 2024.