The Dutch government on Friday announced new rules limiting exports of some advanced semiconductor equipment, a move that comes amid US pressure on its allies to curb sales of high-tech components to China.
“We took this step in the interest of our national security,” said Trade Minister Liesje Schreinemacher, adding that the equipment could have military applications.
Schreinemacher added, without naming China, that only a “very limited” number of companies and products would be affected.
ASML, a Dutch company that is a major equipment supplier to computer chip makers, said it would not change its financial guidance as a result of the new rules.
The measures, which will require companies that make advanced chip-making equipment to obtain a license before they can export it, are expected to take effect on Sept. 1.
ASML, Europe’s largest technology firm, repeated a statement in March indicating that top models of its second most advanced “DUV” lithography system, used to help print circuits onto chips, will need licenses.
The company called its 2000-series models “later” and said it didn’t expect the rules to have a material impact on its financial forecasts. The company’s most advanced EUV machines have never been shipped to China.
ASM International, which makes instruments for atomic layer deposition, said it did not expect a significant change in its predictions following the Dutch rules, which also discuss the technology.
Schreinemacher said he expects around 20 license applications a year, which represents a “limited portion of the total product portfolio of companies that fall under this rule.”
Source: Terra
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