US commerce secretary raises concerns over reports ASML machine reached China

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has recently raised concerns with senior executives at ASML over the possibility that one of the company's most sophisticated chipmaking machines has found its way to China, according to Bloomberg News, citing people familiar with the discussions.

If confirmed, the development would breach U.S. export controls on advanced chipmaking technology. The machine in question is believed to be one of ASML's extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography systems, which have been subject to export restrictions since the first administration of President Donald Trump.

Sources said ASML rejected the suggestion and informed the minister that none of its advanced machines had ended up in China. Bloomberg reported that the U.S. Department of Commerce declined to comment on the issue.

According to Bloomberg, multiple senior officials who requested anonymity claimed to possess evidence indicating that ASML may not have acted in good faith. The sources did not, however, present any supporting evidence for their allegations.

An ASML spokesperson said the company is "fully committed to complying with all applicable regulations." According to the spokesperson, ASML has previously "refuted several unfounded rumours about failing to comply with export controls related to China, which were inaccurate and damaging to our reputation."

Bloomberg cited a spokesperson for the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who said that the Netherlands takes seriously the responsibility that comes with its "unique role in the semiconductor industry." The country enforces the restrictions "very strictly" and "always takes action when necessary."