China Targets ASML Dominance with National Strategy for Lithography Development

Key Facts

1Top Chinese semiconductor executives called for a coordinated national effort to develop operational lithography systems.

2The initiative aims to cover the 2026-2030 period to bolster Beijing's technological self-reliance.

3Industry leaders seek to create a domestic equivalent to the Dutch firm ASML, which dominates the chip-making equipment market.

Top executives in China's semiconductor industry are calling for a coordinated national effort to develop advanced operational lithography systems. The initiative, targeted for the 2026-2030 period, aims to bolster Beijing's technological self-reliance and reduce dependence on foreign technology providers. Industry leaders are specifically looking to create a domestic alternative to the Dutch firm ASML, which currently dominates the global chip-making equipment market. This strategic push comes in response to tightening international export restrictions that threaten China's access to critical manufacturing hardware. The move is expected to provide significant tailwinds for domestic players like SMIC and Hua Hong Semiconductor through increased government subsidies and strategic support. Ultimately, China's drive for technological sovereignty could reshape the long-term competitive landscape of the global semiconductor supply chain.