Amsterdam, September 6 (FinanceFlashNews) – The Dutch government announced that it will expand export restrictions on semiconductor manufacturing equipment starting September 7. This move follows the tightening of U.S. restrictions on high-tech exports to China. Dutch Minister for Foreign Trade Reinette Klever cited national security concerns as the primary reason for the decision.
The new rules will require export licenses for two additional machines produced by ASML—the DUV lithography 1970i and 1980i systems—which are critical in producing computer chips. This step aligns Dutch export policies on advanced semiconductor technologies with those of the United States.
The U.S. has been pressuring its allies to limit exports of these tools in an effort to curb China’s technological advancement, particularly in the production of military equipment.
In response, ASML stated that it does not expect this policy shift to have a significant impact on its profits for this year or the foreseeable future. The Dutch government had already prevented ASML from exporting its most advanced tools to China, and since September 2023, has required licenses for other advanced models.
Some Dutch lawmakers have raised concerns about the impact of U.S. pressure on Dutch sovereignty.
Keywords: Netherlands, ASML, semiconductor manufacturing, DUV lithography, export restrictions, USA, China, national security
