Netherlands bans ASML from exporting chip equipment to China, Beijing reacts

ASML, a key player in the global semiconductor supply chain, had planned to export some chipmaking machines to China. However, the Dutch government has blocked the plan by revoking its export license. ASML said the affected shipments to China included some lithography systems, which are critical equipment in the chipmaking process.

ASML forced to suspend exports to China as US escalates tech war. (Photo: techovedas)

“ASML’s authorization to ship the NXT:2050i and NXT:2100i lithography systems in 2023 was recently partially revoked by the Dutch government, affecting some customers in China,” the company said. “In recent discussions with the US government, ASML has sought further clarification on the scope and impact of the US export control regulations,” the company added.

The US has sought to limit China’s ability to expand its knowledge and production of semiconductors, and has urged its allies to limit exports of semiconductor-related technology. In October 2023, the Biden administration introduced new restrictions to try to prevent non-US companies from exporting US-made semiconductor chips and lithography machines containing US-made parts and technology to China.

Asked how he would react to the Dutch government’s move, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin called on the Netherlands to “respect market principles and the law, take practical actions to protect the common interests of both countries and their companies, and maintain the stability of the international market supply chain.” He added that the US’s actions to encourage the move were “hegemonic and bullying behavior.”

HUYNH DUNG (Source: Reuters, Guardian)

Source: https://vtc.vn/ha-lan-cam-asml-xuat-khau-thiet-bi-chip-sang-trung-quoc-bac-kinh-phan-ung-ar845405.html