China Begins Mass Production of Immersion DUV Machines, Rivaling ASML; First 5 Units to Be Delivered This Year

China has started domestic mass production of immersion DUV lithography machines used in advanced chip manufacturing, a field long dominated by Dutch company ASML. This move provides a significant competitive advantage. The first five systems are scheduled to be delivered this year to Chinese semiconductor manufacturers such as SMIC, Hua Hong, and CXMT. This development has negatively impacted ASML's market value. Following the news, ASML shares fell by more than 8%. China's push for domestic production has the potential to shake ASML's monopoly in this area. China's step is seen as a response to chip technology restrictions imposed by the US and its allies. The goal is to make China more independent in the semiconductor supply chain through local production. This is not investment advice.