ASML says it sold 'absolutely nothing' in Europe in 2026

European chipmakers will not have access to the latest lithography technology without new factory construction.

ASML, the sole global supplier of EUV lithography systems, reported zero revenue from Europe in the first half of 2026. This marks a significant drop from previous years, where Europe accounted for 1% of ASML's revenue in 2025, 5% in 2024, and 2-4% in prior years. ASML executive vice president Frank Heemskerk stated that the lack of demand stems from a failure to build new chip factories and invest in the sector within Europe. The company is now urging European Union authorities to intervene and stimulate demand for European-produced chips. This situation contrasts with ASML's overall global business, which remains robust, but highlights a specific challenge in its European market.

The sharp decline in ASML's European sales signals a concerning lack of growth and investment in the continent's semiconductor manufacturing capabilities. Despite global demand for advanced chips, European entities are not commissioning the cutting-edge fabrication plants necessary to utilize ASML's EUV machines. This creates a paradox where Europe, home to a major chip equipment supplier, is failing to translate that proximity into domestic production capacity.

The plea from ASML for EU authorities to create demand underscores the urgent need for a coordinated strategy to bolster the European semiconductor ecosystem. Without active policy interventions, the continent risks falling further behind in a critical global industry, impacting its technological sovereignty and economic competitiveness in the long term.