ASML, the Dutch manufacturer of advanced chipmaking equipment, has effectively ceased sales of its machinery within Europe. Executive vice president Frank Heemskerk stated that the lack of new semiconductor fabrication plants on the continent is the primary driver behind this trend.
In 2025, Europe generated only 1.6% of ASML’s total net sales, amounting to approximately €524 million. The Netherlands, where the company is headquartered, contributed just €4.7 million, representing 0.014% of the company's total annual revenue of €32.7 billion.
The European Union's Chips Act aims to secure 20% of global semiconductor production by 2030. However, ASML leadership, including CEO Christophe Fouquet, suggests this target is difficult to achieve due to regulatory burdens, slow permitting, and a lack of local manufacturing champions.
ASML remains the sole provider of extreme ultraviolet lithography systems required for cutting-edge chip production. Major global manufacturers such as TSMC, Samsung, and Intel rely on this technology, yet the company finds almost no demand for its equipment in its home region.
