Sat Sep 07 22:48:00 UTC 2024: ## Netherlands Aligns with US, Tightens Export Controls on ASML Chipmaking Machines
**The Hague, Netherlands** – The Dutch government announced Friday it is tightening export controls on semiconductor manufacturing equipment produced by ASML, the world’s leading supplier of such technology. The move mirrors similar restrictions imposed by the US, aiming to prevent China from acquiring advanced technologies that could be used in military applications.
Effective immediately, ASML will now apply for export licenses directly with the Dutch authorities, rather than the US government, for shipments outside the European Union. The new restrictions apply to a wider range of ASML equipment than previously controlled, encompassing “more types of equipment” beyond the initial curbs imposed in September 2023.
“I’ve made this decision for reasons of security,” said Dutch Foreign Trade Minister Reinette Klever. She highlighted the “increased security risks” associated with exporting this technology, particularly in the current geopolitical landscape, without explicitly mentioning China.
The Netherlands, along with Japan, has previously joined the US in restricting exports of advanced chipmaking equipment to China. This move aims to prevent China from acquiring sensitive technologies for use in cutting-edge weapons and artificial intelligence.
China, however, has condemned these efforts, labeling them as “wrong practices” of politicizing trade relations and “abusively linking them to issues of national security.” The Chinese foreign ministry warned that the technological blockade against China would only damage its own interests.
The Dutch government insists the equipment controlled by the new measures can be used to produce advanced semiconductors crucial for military applications. Therefore, uncontrolled exports pose a security risk to the Netherlands. While the government acknowledges the potential disruption to global trade, it emphasizes that the restrictions are “careful and targeted” and not an outright ban on exports.
ASML, for its part, has stated that the new approach will harmonize export licensing and is not expected to impact the company’s financial outlook. However, the announcement did see shares in ASML decline by 1.5% on the Amsterdam stock exchange.
The Dutch move comes just one day after the US strengthened its own export controls on various technologies, including quantum computers and equipment used to manufacture advanced semiconductors.
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