China Discontent with Dutch Export Controls on Chipmaking Equipment

China expressed dissatisfaction with the Dutch government's decision to expand export controls on ASML chipmaking equipment. The Dutch government aligned its rules with U.S. export restrictions. Beijing criticized Washington's strategy to pressure allies into restricting Chinese access to cutting-edge semiconductor technologies.

China has expressed its displeasure over the Dutch government's decision to expand export controls on ASML chipmaking equipment. This move, announced by the Chinese commerce ministry on Sunday, follows the Dutch government's decision on Friday to broaden its export licensing requirements for ASML's DUV immersion lithography tools, aligning with U.S. export restrictions.

Beijing has vociferously criticized Washington for pressuring allies like the Netherlands and Japan to enforce export controls targeting China's access to advanced chipmaking technologies. The Chinese commerce ministry stated, "The United States continues to coerce countries to tighten export control measures for semiconductors to maintain its global hegemony. China resolutely opposes this."

The ministry also urged the Dutch government to avoid actions that harm Sino-Dutch cooperation in semiconductors and protect the mutual interests of Chinese and Dutch enterprises. Meanwhile, Dutch Trade Minister Reinette Klever emphasized that the decision was made in the interest of national safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)