ASML Prepares for Full-Scale Production of Advanced Chipmaking Machine
Dutch Giant Ramps Up Output of $350 Million EUV System
Amid Ongoing Diplomatic Pressure from US, Netherlands Grapples with Business Implications
VELDHOVEN, Netherlands, February 9, 2024 - ASML, the global leader in semiconductor manufacturing equipment, has announced that it is ramping up production of its new 350 million euro High NA extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machine. The announcement comes amid ongoing pressure from the United States government for the Dutch government to restrict ASML's sales to Chinese customers.
The High NA EUV machine is a highly advanced piece of equipment that is essential for the production of the most cutting-edge semiconductor chips. ASML's decision to ramp up production of the machine is seen as a sign that the company is confident that the diplomatic pressure from the US will not result in a ban on its sales to China.
The Dutch government has been grappling with the issue of ASML's sales to China for months. The US has argued that ASML's machines could be used by China to develop advanced military technologies, and it has threatened to impose sanctions on the company if it continues to sell to Chinese customers. The Dutch government, however, is concerned about the economic impact of a ban on ASML's sales to China, as the company is a major employer in the Netherlands.
ASML's announcement that it is gearing up production of the High NA EUV machine is a clear indication that the company believes that the diplomatic pressure from the US will not result in a ban on its sales to China. The Dutch government has not yet made a decision on whether it will restrict ASML's sales to China, but the company's announcement is likely to increase pressure on the government to allow the company to continue to sell to Chinese customers.
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