Cabinet restricts export of ASML chip machines to China

According to a statement from Schreinemacher, “additional national export control measures” are being taken. These “concern very specific technologies in the semiconductor production cycle in which the Netherlands has a unique and leading position, such as the most advanced”, writes the Minister.

Sensitive chip technology

At the end of January, it had already been disclosed that the Netherlands, the United States and Japan had reached an agreement on the restriction of chip technology exports to China. Washington has already limited its own chip technology exports to China. The Americans also turned to the Netherlands, as ASML is a world leader in the development of chip machines.

The Americans adamantly want to slow down China’s technological advance, lest the Chinese military ultimately benefit. The Americans see it as a threat to the free Western democratic world, and therefore also to the Netherlands. ASML has become a toy in this geopolitical game. With growing knowledge of Dutch technology, China can strengthen its technological position in the world.

“Struggle between the United States and China”

RTL political journalist Fons Lambie is following the case closely: “It has everything to do with the battle between the United States and China. The United States is trying to prevent China from getting a head start. The country wants to achieve this through export. of technology to China. The Netherlands does not go as far as the United States, but is now choosing to impose more restrictions.

China has yet to respond. “But you can bet China isn’t happy with that,” says Lambie.