Trends
Nikon fields ‘remarkable’ demand for older chip tools in China
OUR TAKENikon is capitalising on a surge in demand for its legacy lithography machines in China, driven by the country’s initiative to build an independent semiconductor supply chain. As US and allied restrictions limit access to the latest chip-making technologies, Chinese manufacturers are turning…
Headline
OUR TAKENikon is capitalising on a surge in demand for its legacy lithography machines in China, driven by the country’s initiative to build an independent semiconductor supply chain. As US and allied restrictions limit access to the latest chip-making technologies, Chinese…
Context
OUR TAKE Nikon is capitalising on a surge in demand for its legacy lithography machines in China, driven by the country’s initiative to build an independent semiconductor supply chain. As US and allied restrictions limit access to the latest chip-making technologies, Chinese manufacturers are turning to Nikon’s older equipment, which is still suitable for certain manufacturing needs. Nikon is actively upgrading these machines to meet the growing demand. President Muneaki Tokunari reports an influx of inquiries for these updated models, signalling a broader shift in Nikon’s market reach from traditional customers such as Intel to a diverse range of companies in China, Taiwan and Japan. — Heidi Luo , BTW reporter Nikon is seeing a surge in demand for its older lithography machines in China as the country increases its efforts to develop an independent semiconductor supply chain. This increase in demand is particularly focused on Nikon’s NSR-2205iL1 machine , which is designed for manufacturing processes used in older chip technologies.
Evidence
Pending intelligence enrichment.
Analysis
Demand for these legacy machines has increased due to restrictions imposed by the US and its allies on the export of the most advanced chipmaking equipment. These restrictions have prompted Chinese companies to seek alternative sources for the technology they need, including turning to older models that are still capable of meeting their manufacturing needs. In response to growing demand, Nikon is strategically upgrading its older technology to serve China’s burgeoning semiconductor industry. “Our older machines are being used to produce legacy chips, and we are receiving a remarkable number of inquiries for our newly upgraded models,” said Tokunari, who’s also chief operating officer and chief financial officer. Also read: Japan approves additional US$3.9 billion in subsidies for semiconductor firm Rapidus Also read: ASML Q2 results show massive new orders for chips
Key Points
- Nikon saw strong demand for older chipmaking equipment in China as the country pushes to boost its semiconductor capabilities.
- Amid export restrictions on advanced technology, Nikon upgraded older equipment to take advantage of new business opportunities in China.
Actions
Pending intelligence enrichment.
