Core Viewpoint - The European Union's (EU) goal to capture 20% of the global semiconductor market by 2030 appears highly unlikely, with current projections estimating only an increase from 9.8% in 2022 to 11.7% by 2030, far below the target [3][4]. Group 1: Current Status and Challenges - The EU's semiconductor industry is currently dominated by a few large companies, which poses risks as delays or failures in individual projects can disproportionately affect the entire sector [4]. - The EU's Chip Act, while ambitious, is not expected to significantly enhance the EU's global market share in semiconductors, as the funding and strategic implementation are insufficient [4][5]. - External challenges such as reliance on imported raw materials, high energy prices, environmental issues, geopolitical instability, and a shortage of skilled labor further complicate the EU's semiconductor ambitions [4][5]. Group 2: Recommendations and Strategic Actions - The European Court of Auditors (ECA) recommends that the EU Commission reassess the Chip Act's goals in light of current resources and global competition, and establish a new semiconductor strategy with clear, achievable targets [5][6]. - The EU should learn from Japan's approach to maintaining strategic industries and consider a more cohesive industrial strategy that emphasizes the importance of semiconductors in economic security [7][8]. - A "Semiconductor Alliance" has been initiated by nine EU member states to enhance competitiveness and strategic autonomy in the semiconductor sector, aiming for better collaboration with the EU Commission [9][10]. Group 3: Future Directions - The EU's semiconductor strategy should focus on leveraging existing strengths, such as the dominance of companies like ASML in critical manufacturing technologies, to navigate the competitive landscape shaped by US-China tensions [7][12]. - Emphasizing the relationship between semiconductors and national defense could influence future budget negotiations within the EU, especially as member states increase defense spending [11][12]. - The EU must adopt a proactive stance rather than a defensive one, ensuring it remains a key player in semiconductor negotiations rather than being sidelined by larger powers [12].