ASML Holding(US:ASML) Guan Cha Zhe Wang·2025-11-24 08:56Core Viewpoint - The news discusses the controversy surrounding ASML's alleged proposal to provide sensitive information to the U.S. government in exchange for leniency in export restrictions to China, which ASML has denied as inaccurate and damaging to its reputation [1][4][5]. Group 1: ASML's Alleged Proposal - ASML's former CEO, Peter W., reportedly suggested that if the U.S. allowed ASML engineers to continue servicing Chinese clients, the company could provide intelligence on Chinese chip factories [4]. - This proposal was characterized as unusual, indicating a willingness from a private Dutch company to share sensitive information with the U.S. government for favorable policy treatment [4]. - The U.S. National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, rejected the proposal, fearing it would allow China to close the gap in chip manufacturing capabilities [4]. Group 2: U.S.-Netherlands Relations - The Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, warned that ASML's actions could jeopardize the Netherlands' standing with the U.S. and emphasized the need to rebuild trust [3]. - The U.S. and Netherlands reached an agreement in January 2023 to further restrict exports of lithography machines to China, with a ban effective from September 2023 and full implementation in 2024 [1][3]. - ASML was allowed to deliver a limited number of previously contracted deep ultraviolet lithography machines (DUV) to China, but exceeded the agreed quantity, leading to U.S. anger [1][3]. Group 3: ASML's Response - ASML has publicly denied the claims made in the book "The Most Important Machine in the World," stating that the content is severely inaccurate and harmful to its reputation [1][5]. - The company emphasized its compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, including export control laws, and stated it has not proposed any actions that would violate agreements with the U.S. or other governments [5]. - ASML's statement highlighted its commitment to maintaining a fair and open international trade environment [5]. Group 4: Broader Implications - The article suggests that U.S. export restrictions may inadvertently strengthen China's semiconductor industry by pushing it towards self-reliance [7]. - Experts have indicated that the U.S. policymakers may underestimate China's capabilities in semiconductor equipment manufacturing, which could lead to increased competition in the international market [7].