Semiconductor Espionage Investigation
Belgium detains former chipmaker executive in semiconductor espionage investigation involving sensitive technology.
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Key Points
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The suspect was arrested specifically on May 10 at Brussels International Airport in Zaventem; he was born in Beijing and resides in Leuven, according to the Belgian Prosecutor’s Office.
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Belgan’s 2024 collapse left more than 400 employees without jobs, adding a significant labor impact to the semiconductor company’s bankruptcy.
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Local media identified the second suspect still being sought as Belgan’s last chief executive officer, although prosecutors have not publicly confirmed that person’s identity.
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The Chinese Embassy in Belgium was not immediately available for comment on the allegations.
Belgian prosecutors are holding a 52-year-old dual Belgian-Chinese national on suspicion of stealing semiconductor secrets and selling them to China. The man was arrested May 10 at Brussels Zaventem Airport as he prepared to board a flight to Beijing, according to EU Today. He allegedly worked as a senior researcher at Belgan, a Belgian chipmaker that collapsed in 2024, while secretly directing a Chinese company making similar chips.
The stolen technology involves gallium nitride semiconductors—advanced chips used in electric vehicles, aerospace, and military systems, Silicon.co.uk reported. Prosecutors are investigating espionage, illegal transfer of trade secrets, abuse of corporate assets, and participation in a criminal organization. A second suspect, believed to be Belgan's last CEO, remains at large.Silicon.co.uk
A Chipmaker's Collapse and Hidden Loyalties
Belgan's bankruptcy in 2024 devastated Belgium's chip sector, leaving over 400 workers jobless. The arrested suspect held a senior research role at the company before its collapse, Dig.Watch reported. Born in Beijing but living in Leuven, Belgium, he allegedly maintained hidden ties to a newly formed Chinese semiconductor firm backed by Chinese investment funds.
Gallium Nitride: Why This Technology Matters
Gallium nitride semiconductors are crucial for modern technology. They power electric vehicle charging systems, military radar, and aerospace equipment. Their efficiency and durability make them far more valuable than older silicon chips. Prosecutors allege the suspect transferred detailed production secrets about this technology to Chinese companies.
Airport Arrest Reveals Suspected Flight to Beijing
Police detained the suspect at Brussels International Airport on May 10 as he prepared to board a flight to Beijing, Silicon.co.uk reported. The timing suggested he was planning to relocate or deliver final materials to his Chinese partners. Belgian authorities have held him in pretrial detention since May while the investigation continues.
Second Suspect Still Missing as China Remains Silent
Local media identified Belgan's former CEO as the second person authorities are hunting, though prosecutors have not confirmed the identity publicly, CTV Guelph reported. The Chinese Embassy in Belgium has not commented on the allegations. Authorities are examining whether additional senior staff at Belgan were involved in the scheme.
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