China voices dissatisfaction with Dutch chipmaking tool export controls

China, Netherlands ASML (AS: ASML) has expressed dissatisfaction with the decision to expand export controls on chipmaking equipment. China’s Ministry of Commerce made its stance clear after the Dutch government announced on Friday that it would increase export licensing requirements for ASML’s DUV lithography tools.The Dutch government’s move aligns its own regulations with export restrictions imposed by the United States on the machines last year. China has been persistent in criticizing U.S. efforts to encourage allies such as the Netherlands and Japan to restrict China’s access to advanced chips and chip-making equipment.

The Chinese Ministry of Commerce said in a statement that it was “firmly opposed” to what it perceived as the US’s attempt to maintain its global hegemony by forcing other countries to tighten semiconductor export controls. The ministry called on the Netherlands not to abuse export controls and to avoid damaging the cooperation between China and the Netherlands in the semiconductor sector. It stressed the importance of defending the common interests of Chinese and Dutch enterprises.

The U.S. has successfully lobbied to block ASML, a leading global supplier of chipmaking equipment, from sending its most advanced lithography systems to China. Dutch Trade Minister Reinette Klever said the decision was based on national security concerns.

ASML’s advanced DUV immersion lithography tools, notably the 1970i and 1980i models, are now subject to an extended Dutch export license, which could affect the company’s business with China. This development is part of the ongoing international debate over semiconductor technology and trade.