China Circumvents Chip Export Restrictions with Retrofitted ASML Equipment
Chinese semiconductor firms are sidestepping Western export controls by upgrading existing ASML lithography machines. SMIC and Huawei lead the effort, sourcing components from secondary markets to enhance DUV systems already within China's borders.
The retrofitted Twinscan NXT:1980i machines now achieve seven-nanometer production capabilities through unauthorized upgrades. Third-party engineers install high-precision lenses and alignment sensors without ASML's involvement, violating Dutch export restrictions that prohibit performance enhancements beyond 1%.
This technological improvisation highlights China's determination to maintain advanced chip production despite international sanctions. The upgrades specifically improve overlay accuracy and throughput speeds - critical metrics for manufacturing AI chips and maintaining technological competitiveness.
