The FME trade organization is calling on the Cabinet to take a stand with the European Union against the chip export restrictions demanded by the United States.
FME is a Dutch association of companies working in the field of technology. The trade association has more than 2,000 members, including chip giants ASML and NXP.
Today, Prime Minister Mark Rutte and Minister Wopke Hoekstra (Foreign Affairs) head to the White House in Washington. The two visited President Joe Biden to talk about trade relations, defense and the situation in Ukraine.
Ruth confirmed last week At a recent press conference Chip export restrictions From the United States can be processed. America wants the Netherlands to limit the sale of chip technology to China.
In the run-up to the meeting, the FME called on the Cabinet to take a stand against the request. “The Netherlands benefits from united and strong action on the part of the EU,” said FME President Theo Henraer. in the current situation.
“At this time of rapid technological developments, digitization and geopolitical tensions, national and European strategic autonomy is of great importance.”
Chip export restrictions
In its own words, Washington fears that China could use advanced chip technology for military purposes. This is the downfall of US chip companies since oct Under strict export ban. The United States wants allies the Netherlands and Japan to adopt the measures.
New export restrictions be hit For Dutch chip companies with Chinese customers, including ASML. The FME warns that further measures will have negative consequences for the Dutch and European economies. The sectoral organization hopes that the Council of Ministers will not heed or heed the call of the United States.
Instead, the FME argues, the Netherlands should turn to the European Commission for cooperation and support in the field of international politics. Chairman Henrar also sees potential for collaboration with key chip makers outside Europe, including those in South Korea, Taiwan and Japan.
“The digital economy has grown two and a half times faster than in the last 15 years,” said Henrer. “Chip and semiconductor technology is the basis for this growth. So there should be plenty of room for our Dutch digital champions, within the limits set by the European Union.”
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