The conflict between the US and China over semiconductor technology shows no sign of abating, as former ASML CEO Peter Wennink predicts it will continue for years to come. In an interview, Wennink criticized the ideological nature of the dispute, highlighting the lack of factual basis in the discussions. He expressed concern about how ideological decisions could impact business operations, emphasizing the need to balance stakeholder interests in navigating geopolitical tensions.
ASML, a key player in the semiconductor industry, has been facing increased US restrictions on exporting its chip-making equipment to China since 2018. Wennink disclosed his efforts to strike a balance between the conflicting interests, including lobbying against strict export restrictions and addressing intellectual property concerns with Chinese officials. He stressed that his loyalty lies with his customers, suppliers, employees, and shareholders, rather than any specific country.
Looking to the future, Wennink predicted a prolonged period of tension in the semiconductor industry, cautioning that the geopolitical stakes involved could lead to decades of conflict in the chip sector. As the US-China dispute continues to escalate, Wennink’s insights shed light on the challenges facing businesses caught in the crossfire of ideological disagreements between major global powers.
