Commerce chamber concerned about German ‘ interference’

Fujian Grand Chip Investment Fund LP’s takeover bid for German semiconductor equipment company Aixtron is a regular business action and should not be subject to continued political interference, the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Germany said Thursday.

“The companies located in Germany are concerned about the fact that relevant governmental authorities in Germany are once again politically interfering in investment from China and have no understanding of the short- term contradictory decision of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy of Germany ( BMWi),” according to the Berlin- based institution.

The statement also noted that political uncertainty would not only worsen the investment climate in Germany and lead to losses for investors, but would also have a negative impact on the credibility of the German federal government.

BMWi withdrew the clearance certificate for the Grand Chip deal a few days ago. The ministry has reopened the review of the 670 million euro ($ 732.06 million) deal, which was initially approved in September.

“The relevant government authorities in Germany should not, on the one hand, demand the opening of the Chinese market, but at the same time repeatedly create barriers to market activity. Such protectionist tendencies will soon be detrimental to the development of the German and European economy,” emphasized the chamber.