China expresses unrest with Dutch inclusion of semiconductors on export control list

China has called on the Netherlands to refrain from implementing measures that obstruct normal cooperation and impede the development of the semiconductor industry between the two countries, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Commerce on Saturday.

In response to a media query, the ministry's spokesperson highlighted that China and the Netherlands have been engaged in extensive and frequent communications and consultations at multiple levels regarding the issue of semiconductor export controls over the past few months.

However, the Dutch side has ultimately decided to include the mentioned semiconductor equipment in its export control list, which China has expressed dissatisfaction with.

The spokesperson reiterated that the United States, driven by its pursuit of global hegemony, has broadened the scope of national security and misused export control measures in recent years. These actions have not only compromised the interests of its allies but also coerced and influenced other countries to suppress China's presence in the semiconductor industry.

By deliberately fostering industrial decoupling, they disrupt the global development of the semiconductor sector, said the spokesperson, stressing that China firmly opposes such actions.

The Ministry of Commerce called for the Dutch side to uphold market principles and honor the spirit of contracts, safeguard the interests of both Chinese and Dutch companies, as well as the mutual benefits derived from bilateral cooperation, and to maintain stability in the global semiconductor supply chain.