The world's top chipmakers can flip a 'kill switch' should China invade Taiwan, Bloomberg reports

May 24, 2024

Read previewTwo of the world's most important chip companies can flip a "kill switch" remotely on their most advanced chipmaking machines should China invade Taiwan, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter. The Netherlands's ASML — Europe's top tech company by market value — supplies advanced machines to chip-making companies. The US has also pressured the Netherlands to block some ASML exports to China to limit the country's ability to manufacture advanced chips. The Dutch company has also said it will stop servicing some equipment previously exported to China. Rising concerns over Taiwan Strait developmentsThere are concerns about China's intensifying drills around Taiwan after Taiwan inaugurated its new President, William Lai — whom Beijing has branded as a separatist — on Monday.