ASML Plans to Keep Operations in the Netherlands

Dutch chipmaker ASML wants to expand its business in the city of Eindhoven. This could end speculation about it possibly setting up operations abroad.

ASML agreed on a deal with the city to explore an expansion that would be large enough to base around 20,000 new employees in an underdeveloped area in the north of Eindhoven. A final decision on going ahead with the expansion depends on a few crucial points. The news comes a month after the country’s government outlined plans to spend around €2.5 billion to improve infrastructure in the region, as part of a charm offensive encouraging ASML not to move its operations abroad.

CFO Roger Dassen explained in the statement that ASML preferred to keep its core operations in the Netherlands and as close to existing locations as possible. It is headquartered in the neighboring town of Veldhoven. Dassen also welcomed the government’s investment pledge, adding it viewed the availability of talent, infrastructure, and a positive investment climate as other key factors.

ASML is the largest company in the Netherlands and one of Europe’s biggest technology players. It has attracted headlines in recent times after the Dutch government revoked an export license covering shipments of certain equipment to China following pressure from the US.