Netherlands Protests US Proposal to Further Bar Chip Giant ASML from China Market

The Netherlands has voiced strong objections to a proposed U.S. law that would impose further restrictions on the Dutch semiconductor equipment giant ASML's business with China. The legislation, known as the "Match Act," seeks to prevent ASML from supplying even lower-end chipmaking machines and servicing its existing clients in China. This move by Washington is seen as an attempt to further choke off China's access to critical technology, building on existing U.S. sanctions that have already hampered ASML's sales of its most advanced equipment. The Dutch government, through Trade Minister Sjoerd Sjoerdsma, has communicated its concerns about the "extraterritorial aspects" of the proposed law, highlighting the potential impact on the Netherlands if adopted in its current form. This situation underscores the complex geopolitical landscape of the semiconductor industry, where national security concerns and economic interests frequently collide, placing key European players like ASML in a difficult position between the U.S. and China.

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Given the possible impact of the Match Act on the Netherlands if adopted in its current form, the Netherlands has communicated its objections, particularly regarding the extraterritorial aspects, to both members of Congress and the US government.