Belgian Dual National Detained Over Gallium Nitride Chip Espionage

Belgian federal prosecutors announced that a 52-year-old man with dual Chinese and Belgian nationality was taken into pre-trial detention on May 10 as he prepared to board a flight from Brussels to Beijing. Prosecutors say he is suspected of illegally transferring specialized intellectual property and trade secrets related to gallium nitride (GaN) semiconductor production to China. The alleged conduct falls under industrial espionage, unlawful disclosure of business secrets, and possible membership in a criminal organization.

Associated PressThe Straits TimesThe Jerusalem PostBelgian-Chinese Arrest in GaN Chip Trade-Secret Probe

The suspect previously held a senior research position at BelGaN, a Belgian micro-chip maker that focused on GaN semiconductors used in electric vehicles, satellites, radar systems and electronic-warfare applications. BelGaN, which employed roughly 400 staff, entered bankruptcy proceedings in July 2024 following financial difficulties.

The Jerusalem Post

Prosecutors contend the man simultaneously served as a director of a newly created Chinese company that manufactures comparable GaN chips. That Chinese firm was established only a few months after the suspect began at BelGaN and was financed by a Chinese investment fund. As part of the probe, investigators seized several data-storage devices and communications equipment for forensic analysis. Authorities also disclosed that a second suspect remains at large and is being pursued.

Associated Press

In a formal statement, Belgian prosecutors confirmed the detention, outlined the charges, and emphasized that the investigation is ongoing. The Chinese embassy in Belgium was not immediately available for comment on the case.

The Straits Times

The case arrives amid a series of suspected spying incidents in Belgium, including the recent arrest of a NATO intern. Officials warn that heightened scrutiny of cross-border semiconductor research could affect hiring practices, partnership agreements, and supply-chain stability for firms working with GaN technology. Companies may face tighter export controls and increased monitoring of intellectual-property transfers as authorities seek to protect critical-technology sectors.

Belgian-Chinese Arrest in GaN Chip Trade-Secret Probe