Netherlands Expands Restrictions on Chipmaking Equipment, China Expresses Dissatisfaction
BEIJING – The Chinese Ministry of Commerce has expressed dissatisfaction with the Netherlands’ decision to expand export controls on semiconductor equipment, specifically targeting advanced lithography machines used in chip manufacturing.
On September 6th, the Dutch governmentannounced it would broaden its existing restrictions on the export of such equipment, which were initially imposed in 2023. This move comes amid heightened global tensionssurrounding the semiconductor industry and the US-led effort to restrict China’s access to advanced technologies.
In response to the announcement, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce stated that China has engaged in multi-level and frequent communication andconsultations with the Netherlands regarding the semiconductor export controls. The spokesperson expressed disappointment with the Dutch government’s decision to further expand the restrictions, arguing that it seriously threatens the stability of the global semiconductor industry chain and supply chain.
Thespokesperson further criticized the US for generalizing the concept of national security and pressuring other countries to impose stricter export controls on semiconductors and related equipment. This, they argued, seriously harms the legitimate rights and interests of relevant countries and enterprises.
China has repeatedly condemned the US-led effort to restrict its accessto advanced technologies, arguing that such measures are driven by geopolitical motives and ultimately harm the global economy. The spokesperson urged the Netherlands to prioritize international trade rules and the broader China-Netherlands economic partnership, emphasizing the importance of respecting market principles and contractual obligations.
They warned that the expanded restrictions could hinder normal cooperation and developmentin the semiconductor sector between the two countries. The spokesperson also called on the Netherlands to refrain from abusing export control measures and to uphold the common interests of both Chinese and Dutch companies, as well as the stability of the global semiconductor supply chain.
The Dutch government has not publicly commented on China’s response to the expandedrestrictions. However, the move is likely to further escalate tensions between the two countries and raise concerns about the potential impact on global semiconductor supply chains.
The Netherlands is home to ASML, the world’s leading manufacturer of extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines, which are essential for producing the most advancedchips. The US has been pushing for tighter controls on the export of these machines to China, arguing that they could be used for military purposes.
China, meanwhile, has been investing heavily in its own semiconductor industry, aiming to reduce its reliance on foreign technology. The country has also been seeking to diversify its supplychains and reduce its vulnerability to US sanctions.
The latest developments underscore the growing strategic importance of the semiconductor industry and the increasing geopolitical competition surrounding it. The expanded restrictions on chipmaking equipment are likely to have significant implications for both China and the Netherlands, as well as for the global semiconductor industry as a whole.
Views: 0