Background

Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) lithography is the semiconductor manufacturing process technology that enables production of chips at nodes below 7nm — the sub-category that includes the advanced processors in AI data centres, smartphones, and high-performance computing. EUV machines are manufactured exclusively by ASML, the Dutch company that holds a global monopoly on the technology. A single EUV machine costs over €150m and requires years of lead time. The technology's concentration at ASML — with the Netherlands as the only production site — makes it a critical chokepoint in global semiconductor supply chains and a significant European technological asset in the AI race. US export controls have restricted ASML's EUV sales to China, giving the West a structural advantage at the leading edge.

Common Questions

Why can only ASML make EUV machines?

ASML accumulated 30 years of precision optics and mechatronics expertise that no rival has replicated; it holds a global monopoly.Source: Background

Why is China blocked from buying EUV equipment?

US export controls, applied via Dutch government licences, prohibit ASML from shipping EUV machines to Chinese customers.Source: Background

What chips need EUV lithography to make?

All leading-edge chips at 7nm and below require EUV, including AI accelerators, smartphone SoCs, and data-centre processors.Source: Background

How much does an EUV machine cost?

A single EUV machine costs over €150m and requires years of lead time to deliver.Source: Background

How the World Sees Them

United States administration

the US is not a PIGGYBANK for Europe

Ecosia

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European Commission

The best products should succeed because they're better, not because they're owned by the company running the search engine.

House of Commons Science, Innovation and Technology Committee

risks being cut off at whim