Deep-rooted historical challenges to friendship: Netherlands-Taiwan transition from colonial past to mutually advantageous relations

Deep-rooted historical challenges to friendship: Netherlands-Taiwan transition from colonial past to mutually advantageous relations

The historical connection between the Netherlands and Taiwan dates back to the 17th century, when the Dutch East India Company established colonies in Taiwan. The Dutch set up Fort Zeelandia on the southern edge of Taiwan in 1624, which became a significant trading hub. However, the Dutch period in Taiwan ended in 1662 with the conquest by the Ming Dynasty. Nevertheless, the Dutch were the first Europeans to leave a lasting impact on Taiwan.

Fast forward to the present day, and the Netherlands and Taiwan maintain strong economic ties, particularly in the semiconductor industry. Taiwan is a major player in the global semiconductor market, with companies like TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) being a critical supplier of chips worldwide. The Netherlands, home to companies like NXP Semiconductors, has also been a significant player in the semiconductor sector.

While there isn't a direct state-to-state partnership between the Netherlands and Taiwan specifically in the semiconductor industry, both countries benefit from global supply chains and collaborations. The Netherlands, strategically located for trade and logistical purposes within Europe, serves as an important hub for semiconductor companies. Taiwan, meanwhile, is a leader in chip manufacturing. The U.S. and other countries have been providing support to Taiwan in its semiconductor sector, which indirectly benefits countries like the Netherlands through trade and investment.

One of the most notable collaborations in the semiconductor sector is between the Netherlands' Advanced Semiconductor Materials Lithography (ASML) and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC). ASML, which has a near-monopoly on extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines, supplies TSMC with these essential machines to create smaller and more efficient chips for various electronics. ASML invests heavily in research and development to provide improved machines for TSMC, and the strategic partnership between the two encourages other entities to invest in ASML.

The relationship between the Netherlands and Taiwan extends beyond the economic sphere. The Dutch parliament has approved resolutions supporting the need to preserve the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and strengthen ties with Taiwan. The alliance between the two nations is based on shared values, with the democratic rebirth of Taiwan and its emergence as a global technology hub revitalizing ties between the Netherlands and Taiwan.

As the world grapples with supply chain dependencies and geopolitical shifts, both the Netherlands and Taiwan are likely to continue their economic engagement. The relationship between the two nations is set to become increasingly prosperous, based on shared intentions and perspectives.

Sources:

• Michele Maresca, analyst at Il Caffe Geopolitico and the think tank Geopol21.

1. In the realm of technology, the Dutch firm ASML, a notable leader in extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines, forms a strategic partnership with Taiwan's Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) to provide essential machinery for chip production.
2. Beyond economics, the Dutch parliament has expressed support for maintaining the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, and the alliance between the two nations is built on shared democratic values and a mutual respect for each other's rise as global players in the spheres of technology and general news.

Read also: