The Dutch cabinet is set to extend its protections against unwanted mergers and acquisitions that threaten national security. Minister of Economic Affairs, Micky Beljaarts, emphasized the urgency in light of increasing hybrid attacks and espionage. Recently enacted legislation will now cover additional sectors, including biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and advanced materials, alongside previously protected areas such as chip manufacturing and nuclear technology. Companies that fail to comply with these regulations may face substantial fines, with the new measures expected to take effect in six months.