Nikon to take on ASML with low-priced chipmaking equipment: CEO - Nikkei Asia

Nikon is positioning itself for a comeback in semiconductor photolithography equipment by offering lower prices than Dutch competitor ASML, which holds over 80% market share. The Japanese company's ne... Read original →

Nikon’s low-price lithography play isn’t just a cost war—it’s a targeted assault on ASML’s dominance in mature-node DUV systems. This move could reshape procurement strategies among foundries, especially as mainland China accelerates its push for supply chain autonomy, potentially positioning Nikon as the geopolitically palatable 'second-best' option. However, Nikon still lags in immersion and EUV capabilities, leaving advanced nodes untouched. If U.S. export controls tighten further, Nikon may exploit Japan’s comparatively flexible stance—but at heightened geopolitical risk. ASML is unlikely to slash prices; instead, it will reinforce client lock-in via service bundling and capacity guarantees. Over the next 12–24 months, unless Nikon demonstrates viable sub-28nm yield performance, its pricing edge won’t translate into sustainable share. Success, however, could catalyze a parallel, non-U.S.-aligned semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem, fundamentally altering global fab investment calculus.