China Criticizes Dutch Expansion of ASML Export Restrictions
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – China expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Dutch government's decision to tighten export controls on chipmaking equipment from ASML, urging for a balanced approach to protect bilateral trade and global supply chains.
The Chinese Commerce Ministry released a statement on Sunday expressing its dissatisfaction with the Netherlands' decision to expand export restrictions on ASML, a leading supplier of chipmaking equipment.
The ministry called on the Dutch government to refrain from abusing export control measures and emphasized the need to safeguard the mutual interests of both nations and their businesses.
The statement highlighted concerns over maintaining the stability of global industrial and supply chains.
The Dutch government announced on Friday that it would broaden the export licensing requirements for ASML's 1970i and 1980i DUV immersion lithography tools, aligning its policies with the United States' unilateral restrictions imposed last year.
China has consistently criticized the US for pressuring allies, including the Netherlands and Japan, to enforce export controls that limit China's access to advanced semiconductor technologies.
"In recent years, in order to maintain its global hegemony, the United States has continued to coerce certain countries to tighten export control measures for semiconductors and related equipment. China is resolutely opposed to this," the Chinese Commerce Ministry stated in response to the Dutch decision.
The ministry also warned against measures that could harm Sino-Dutch cooperation in the semiconductor sector and urged the Netherlands to protect the "common interests of Chinese and Dutch enterprises."
US lobbying efforts have prevented ASML from exporting its most advanced lithography systems to China. Dutch Trade Minister Reinette Klever defended the decision on Friday, stating that it was made "for our safety."