March 6, 2024 at 03:35AM
SEMI, an industry association representing 3,000 chip vendors, opposes the EU’s plans to impose export controls on China. They argue that these controls should only be used as a last resort for national security concerns. SEMI also criticizes the EU’s strategy to improve economic security, expressing concerns about potential negative impact on the semiconductor industry.
Meeting Notes Summary:
– SEMI, an industry association representing 3,000 chip vendors, is urging the European Union to reconsider its plans to impose export controls on China, suggesting they should only be used as a “last resort” to protect national security.
– The association criticizes the European Commission’s strategy to improve economic security and stem the flow of sensitive technologies to China, particularly opposing the proposed restrictions on export of chip technology.
– SEMI acknowledges the need for export controls but emphasizes sparing use, highlighting the complex supply chain and the potential negative impact on the European semiconductor industry.
– The association opposes tougher screening of foreign investments in EU chipmakers, fearing it may discourage non-EU investors and undermine the industry’s potential success.
– They argue that export controls should be the primary instrument for preventing technology leakage, suggesting an equal emphasis on promoting economic opportunities and creating partnerships with non-European countries as a better approach for European chip firms.
In summary, SEMI is advocating for a balanced approach to protecting national security while maintaining the European semiconductor industry’s access to global markets and foreign investments.