SEMI expressed its support for the report released in September by the former ECB president, which emphasizes the necessity of a centralized EU budget, a streamlined approval process for strategic high-tech initiatives, and increased funding to bolster the European semiconductor ecosystem beyond the initial 2023 Chips Act.
In light of the export restrictions imposed by the U.S. and China on chip technology and strategic minerals, the EU must swiftly establish its own export policy "to safeguard EU strategic interests and to project a robust EU presence on the global stage," SEMI's statement indicated.
SEMI represents a broader spectrum of Europe's two primary semiconductor trade associations, comprising 300 members, including leading equipment supplier ASML, as well as various manufacturers and research institutions.
The other association, ESIA, advocates for chipmakers like Infineon, STMicroelectronics, and NXP.
In a recent interview with Reuters, the head of ESIA also emphasized the need for a Chips Act 2.0 to bolster manufacturing in "legacy and foundational" chips, where leading European companies are increasingly challenged by state-subsidized Chinese competitors.
SEMI's recommendations highlighted that while it supports the objectives of the Chips Act, such as attracting new manufacturing, the EU should also provide incentives to foster new technologies and strengthen the semiconductor supply chain, which are vital for the success of Europe’s green transition.