China presses Netherlands to relax semiconductor export controls, Dutch minister says
China has asked the Netherlands to relax export restrictions on semiconductors, Dutch Foreign Affairs Minister Caspar Veldkamp said Thursday after meeting with Chinese officials in Beijing, Bloomberg reports. Veldkamp met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi during the first trip to China by a Dutch cabinet member since the current administration took office.
The ministers discussed semiconductors and “the policy regarding export controls and export licensing,” which Veldkamp described as “a topic of continuous discussion.” When asked if China requested easing the restrictions, Veldkamp said, “Always of course, that’s in their interest.” He added that the Netherlands will continue to prioritize “national security concerns and autonomous licensing decision making.”
The Netherlands is home to ASML Holding NV, the world’s only producer of advanced lithography machines used to manufacture cutting-edge semiconductors. Dutch export controls have prevented ASML from selling its most advanced extreme ultraviolet lithography machines to China. China has expressed “high concern” over these curbs.
During the talks, the two countries reportedly agreed to deepen cooperation in trade and technology and maintain communication on semiconductor technology. Veldkamp said he was “confident” that the topic will be revisited next month when Dutch Foreign Trade Minister Reinette Klever visits Beijing. “It will always remain on our agenda to have an international trade as free as possible,” Veldkamp said.
