AMSTERDAM, Jan 15 (Reuters) - The Dutch government announced on Wednesday that it will expand its export controls on advanced semiconductor equipment starting from April 1. This move is not expected to impact chip equipment company ASML's business, as ASML stated.
The U.S. pressure to restrict shipments to China had pushed the Dutch national export licence requirements for semiconductor equipment to expand multiple times. The recent measures will necessitate companies to obtain export licences for a "very limited" range of technologies, such as measuring and inspection equipment, as per a statement by the Dutch trade ministry.
In response to the announcement, ASML mentioned that it anticipates no additional impact on the company's guidance, particularly after the U.S. government introduced new restrictions on semiconductor exports to China affecting chip equipment firms.
The newly published rule changes in the state legal newspaper of the country revealed that the licensing requirements now encompass technologies used for detecting minuscule defects in wafers, and systems that enhance measurements post deposition and etching processes - crucial steps frequently involved in chip manufacturing.
A spokesperson from the country's trade ministry indicated that occasional minor alterations to the rules may occur due to technological advancements.