[News] Dutch PM Claims to Prioritize ASML’s Interests Amid Potential Export Restrictions to China

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According to an earlier report from Bloomberg, the Dutch government may restrict ASML’s after-sales services for Chinese customers. Regarding the matter, the Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof has stated that the government’s decisions will prioritize ASML’s actual interests to avoid jeopardizing its global position, according to a report by Reuters.

ASML derives about 20% of its total revenue from after-sales services. Per the same Reuters’ report, while Dick Schoof did not comment on rumors that Netherlands would put more curbs on ASML’s China chip business, he highlighted that negotiations are progressing smoothly.

Moreoever, the Dutch government is particularly focused on balancing ASML’s interests with other risks, as the authority has acknowledged that the economic interests are extremely crucial, he noted.

He reiterated that ASML represents an extremely important and innovative industry for the Netherlands and should not face any setbacks, as that would harm its global standing, according to Reuters.

ASML plays a crucial role in the global semiconductor supply chain, as the production of advanced chips heavily reliant on its lithography machines.

Per another Reuters report, in 2023, China became ASML’s second-largest market, accounting for 29% of its total revenue, following Taiwan. This surge in China’s market share was driven by a rush to purchase ASML’s DUV machines before stricter U.S. export restrictions took effect.

Due to U.S. government pressure, the export of the most advanced Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines to China has been banned.

Recently, ASML has expressed dissatisfaction with the Dutch government’s lack of support, with former CEO Peter Wennink even reportedly threatening to relocate the company’s headquarters if its development continues to be constrained.

Wennink has publicly opposed export restrictions to China, warning that such measures could stimulate China to develop new technologies and compete with ASML.

Read more

• [News] ASML Might Not Be Able to Provide Advanced Chipmaking Maintenance Services to China as Early as 2025
• [News] ASML Claims the World Counts on China for Legacy Chips; So Do Chip Equipment Giants

(Photo credit: ASML)