During Minister Hoekstra’s visit to China, he was criticized by his Chinese colleague. ABC News reported that China considers the export ban on ASML technology unjustified. The Chinese ambassador had previously stated that the country could take retaliatory action if the embargo was maintained.
ASML, a company from Veldhoven, is a key player in chip production. It manufactures lithography machines for customers such as Taiwanese TSMC. The lack of access to this equipment would cause major problems for China, although it still has access to ASML products for the time being.
The export ban is due to security concerns about China. Recently, it was revealed that a former Chinese employee of ASML had stolen data. In addition, Western countries are worried about Chinese threats to Taiwan and other neighboring countries.
Minister Qin Gang expressed his concern about the lack of lithography equipment. “We should work together to protect the normal order of trade and regulations between us. Together we must keep the global industrial supply stable.”
The discussion between Qin Gang and Minister Hoekstra lasted 2.5 hours. It was not clear from the Chinese side which retaliatory measures were specifically possible. Qin argued that the security concerns of the Netherlands were unfounded and were being exaggerated by the media.
Minister Hoekstra expressed his concern about “cyber operations conducted from Chinese territory and about Chinese interference”. It is often difficult to determine who is responsible for such activities, just like with Russian hackers. Nevertheless, the Netherlands’ position is strengthened by the ASML technology it holds. Together with the US and Japan, the EU has done its best to limit China’s chip capabilities and restrict its activities. Concerns about spying by Chinese authorities have led to restrictions on Huawei and even a ban on TikTok in Montana. It seems that the relationship between China and Europe in general – and the Netherlands in particular – will not get any easier.
