ASML, Europe's largest semiconductor equipment manufacturer, has firmly denied US concerns that its advanced extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines may have reached China. The Dutch company stated it has never shipped an EUV machine or any specially designed components for such equipment to China.
ASML's Response to US Allegations
In a statement to Reuters, ASML said: "ASML has never shipped an EUV machine to China nor have we shipped to China any component, module or equipment specially designed to be used in an EUV machine." The company emphasized that it has consistently adjusted its business to comply with evolving export control regulations.
The clarification came after a Bloomberg report revealed that US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick raised concerns with ASML executives about EUV technology potentially reaching China despite export restrictions backed by Washington and its allies. Lutnick discussed the issue during a series of meetings with senior ASML leaders.
Dutch Government Defends Export Controls
The Dutch government also defended its export control framework, stating that semiconductor equipment exports are subject to strict licensing requirements. "When it comes to the export of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, the Netherlands works with clear rules and control lists, based on the European Dual-Use Regulation and additional national measures," the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs told Reuters.
The ministry added: "All equipment, components and technology that explicitly fall under these rules require a licence." The policy is enforced strictly, and authorities "step in where necessary."
Background on EUV Technology and Restrictions
ASML's EUV machines are among the most advanced tools in semiconductor manufacturing, roughly the size of a school bus and weighing about 180 tons. The latest dispute is part of ongoing US efforts to tighten restrictions on China's access to advanced semiconductor technology.
Earlier this year, US lawmakers proposed legislation requiring allied countries to align more closely with American export controls to limit China's ability to produce advanced chips. ASML's equipment was specifically referenced in the proposal.
These developments follow allegations that Chinese researchers are developing homegrown EUV technology. According to a December 2025 Reuters report, a Chinese project employing former ASML employees built an EUV machine prototype.
