Bankruptcy of chip manufacturer Belgan raises questions about strategic technology
The Belgian chip manufacturer Belgan has been declared bankrupt. The company, which is based in Oudenaarde, came into the hands of investors from Hong Kong, including Zhen Zhou, in 2021. At the time, they took over the factory from the American company On Semiconductors.
The bankruptcy is drawing attention because Belgan possessed highly specific and strategically valuable technology. The factory specialized in manufacturing chips based on gallium nitride. This material is essential for the production of modern electronics, such as fast chargers and components for electric vehicles.
Since the acquisition by the Asian investors, things had been quiet regarding the company's activities. There had long been concerns about the future of the factory and the direction taken by the new owners. Now that the company is officially bankrupt, the question arises as to what will happen to the unique knowledge and the machines present in Oudenaarde.
The closure of Belgan is a notable moment for the Belgian technology sector. Experts emphasize that the technology developed at the factory is of great importance to the European chip industry. At this moment, it is not yet clear whether a restart is possible or if the technology will be sold to other parties.