CONNECT WITH US

Shibaura deal clears Japan's national security review; opens path for Yageo acquisition

Jingyue Hsiao, DIGITIMES Asia, Taipei 0

Credit: DIGITIMES

Yageo announced on October 3 that it has successfully passed a key milestone in its tender offer for Japan's Shibaura Electronics, securing 50.01% of outstanding shares, or 7,624,200 shares.

According to a press release, the company said the achievement marks a decisive step toward completing the acquisition, underscoring Yageo's long-term commitment to the Japanese market and its broader strategy in the global electronic components industry.

The announcement follows Yageo's earlier acquisition drive this week, when on October 1, it confirmed the successful takeover of Power Management IC (PMIC) designer Ampec Electronics.

Yageo's bid for Shibaura began in February 2025, when the Taiwanese firm launched an unsolicited tender offer at JPY4,300 (approx. US$29.12) per share, valuing the deal at around JPY65.57 billion. Shibaura countered by seeking support from Japanese precision parts maker Minebea Mitsumi, which submitted a higher competing bid of JPY5,200 per share in June. Yageo raised its offer twice, first to JPY6,200 in May and then to JPY7,130 in August, topping Minebea Mitsumi's proposal, Reuters reported.

The process also underwent review under Japan's Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act, as Shibaura's thermistor sensors are considered sensitive to national security. After months of deliberation, Japanese authorities cleared the deal in September, paving the way for Yageo to proceed with the acquisition.

Shibaura Electronics is recognized as a leading manufacturer of negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor sensors, with strong technological capabilities and a global reputation. Yageo said bringing Shibaura into its group will strengthen its sensor business, a key growth driver for applications in artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, and industrial automation. Industry observers note the move complements Yageo's broader transformation from a passive component giant into a diversified global electronic solutions provider.

Article edited by Jack Wu