“There is no morality in politics, there is only results”wrote Niccolò Machiavelli. In the era of a globalized economy, this idea resonates especially relevant.
Chinasimultaneously using economic restrictions, diplomatic tools and military power, balances influence and outright coercion, turning each step into a test of the stability of the international system.
From the European semiconductor market to Taiwan Strait tensions and increased support Pakistan — Beijing’s actions represent not only a geo-economic strategy, but also a test of the world’s ability to withstand economic pressure.
Export restrictions and the fight for microchips
As the BBC reported, in early November 2025, Beijing announced the easing of export restrictions for the company’s microchips Nexperia after the authorities Netherlands took control of it due to serious management problems that could affect the European supply chain. Nexperia, owned by a Chinese structure Wingtechproduces a significant portion of its chips in Europe, but sends about 70% to China for further processing.
Beijing’s restrictions have caused disruption in the auto industry. Volvo And Volkswagen warned of possible production shutdowns. China announced it would consider individual exemptions based on unspecified criteria, while criticizing the Netherlands for interfering in corporate affairs.
Meanwhile, Nexperia is trying to find ways to ensure supply stability following a Dutch court’s decision to remove Wingtech founder Zhang Xuezheng over concerns about the quality of management of its European operations.
Recently the Dutch government activated Product Availability Actciting “serious management deficiencies” in the company’s leadership. This was one of the most radical steps in the field of economic security among countries EU.
EU response: reducing dependence on China
European Union seeks to protect itself from Chinese pressure by strengthening local production of critical technologies, investing in R&D and increasing control over foreign investment. The goal is to reduce dependence and achieve technological autonomy. However, Europe still lags significantly behind China in terms of production volumes and supply chain capacity.
According to EU Institute for Security StudiesChina is creating “multiple dependencies” and actively weaponizing trade instruments, increasing the EU’s vulnerability and forcing it to modernize its own industrial base.
US-China rivalry increases pressure
The Nexperia situation comes amid rising tensions between the US and China following talks in Madrid in the summer of 2025. Previously, the United States banned trade with subsidiaries from Entity Listwhich includes Wingtech, which threatens Nexperia’s access to American technologies and markets.
Washington has aggressively used export controls, technology restrictions and sanctions on Chinese companies – especially in semiconductors, AI and telecommunications – and seeks to synchronize its policies with allies the EU, Japan and South Korea.
If the US and EU implement coordinated export restrictions and controls on raw materials and technology, China could face reduced access to key components, leading to slower innovation and partial technological isolation.
“Anti-coercion coalition” against Beijing
US initiative to create “anti-coercion coalition” received support from international analysts and politicians. Former American Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel called for the formation of a bloc involving Australia and other countries affected by Chinese pressure. Research from CSIS and the American Journal of International Law emphasizes the need to strengthen economic and diplomatic mechanisms to counter Chinese coercion.
This line is also supported by international institutions. Atlantic Council notes the importance of cooperation between the United States and South Korea to reduce dependence on China, and joint statements by the EU and the United States demonstrate a willingness to coordinate in the strategic sphere.
Taiwan Strait: escalating military tensions
In October and November 2025, there was significant military activity in the Taiwan Strait. October 3 Taiwan reported daily incursions by Chinese planes and ships, and in November Beijing continued exercises simulating a blockade of the island. Such an operation would disrupt international trade routes, hit chip supply chains and strengthen the anti-China coalition of the US, EU and Asian allies.
Supporting Pakistan: a strategy with risks
In South Asia, China has strengthened its alliance with Pakistan. In February 2025, the President of Pakistan visited Beijing and the parties confirmed a “strong alliance.” In August, the head of the Chinese Foreign Ministry announced expanded cooperation in industry, agriculture, mining and the fight against terrorism. Production of the class submarine completed Hangorwhich strengthened Pakistan’s defense capabilities.
But the international community sees this as an increase in risks: Pakistan’s support increases tensions with India and could provoke further escalation, as well as sanctions pressure on China from the United States and Europe.
Conclusion: Beijing’s game is getting dangerous
China plays a dangerous game. Each step – from economic pressure to military maneuvers – temporarily increases his influence, but at the same time pushes him towards possible technological and geopolitical isolation. Economic coercion, military activity and expanding alliances could turn against China’s strategy itself, turning Beijing’s ambitions into its own risks.
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