ASML, the most valuable company in Europe by market capitalization, reports zero net sales of its lithography systems within the European market. Frank Heemskerk, the company's Executive Vice President for Global Public Affairs, attributes this to a lack of local investment and the absence of new semiconductor fabrication plants being built in the region.
In the first half of the year, China accounted for 36% of ASML's net system sales, followed by South Korea at 22% and Taiwan at 13%. While global demand for AI computing power drives equipment sales in Asia and North America, Europe remains largely excluded from this growth. ASML's CEO, Christophe Fouquet, noted that Europe currently represents only about 1% of the company's total sales.
Heemskerk stated that China and India are actively courting the company to establish local manufacturing facilities, while the United States is seeking to increase its share of ASML's research and development activities. Despite the European Union's Chips Act, which entered into force in 2023, the region struggles to expand its production capacity.
European auditors have indicated that the goal of doubling the region's global market share by 2030 is unlikely to be met. ASML executives emphasize that while supporting European products is a valid objective, the local industry must first develop the necessary infrastructure. The company is calling for reduced regulatory burdens, faster approval processes, and improved financing options.
