ASML, the world's leading manufacturer of equipment used in semiconductor production, is currently not selling any of its advanced lithography machines in Europe. Frank Heemskerk, ASML’s executive vice president of global public affairs, stated during an event in Amsterdam at the end of September that the company is not making any sales of its machines on the continent. The main reason given is a lack of investment and the absence of new semiconductor factories under construction in Europe. ASML produces the specialized equipment needed to manufacture the latest generation of microchips, which are essential components in everything from smartphones to computers. Major clients include TSMC and Samsung Electronics. However, Europe is no longer a market for ASML’s products. In the second quarter of this year, the region contributed zero sales of systems for the company. For context, the European, Middle Eastern, and African region accounted for just 1 percent of ASML’s sales in 2025, a sharp decline from previous years. The European Union introduced the Chips Act in 2023 to address a global shortage of semiconductors linked to the Covid-19 pandemic. The legislation aimed to increase Europe's share in global semiconductor production, but it has not yet generated the necessary investments to build new factories. In 2025, an EU oversight body estimated that the goal of doubling Europe’s market share by 2030 would likely not be achieved. As a result, the legislation is currently under review. While Europe reevaluates its strategy, other countries are actively attracting investments by offering public funds and financial incentives to boost their own semiconductor industries. In the first half of the year, ASML’s main markets for its equipment were in Asia, with South Korea leading, followed by Taiwan and China. Faced with this ongoing demand, ASML is considering expanding its production capacity beyond its original borders. China, India, and the United States are among the countries vying for ASML’s investment. Both China and India are offering attractive conditions to encourage ASML to invest and build factories in their regions. This dynamic was demonstrated by a partnership signed in May with Tata Electronics Private Limited, aimed at developing chip manufacturing capabilities in India. The United States is also engaging with ASML, encouraging the company to increase its research and development efforts on American soil from a quarter to half of its total R&D activities. In this competitive landscape, ASML’s leadership emphasizes that Europe must invest concretely to remain a player in the semiconductor sector.