Samsung Electronics Co. and ASML Holding N.V., Netherlands-based sole manufacturer of lithography machines using extreme ultraviolet equipment (EUV) strengthened business ties for next-gen chip production during chief meeting.

On Tuesday, local time, Jay Y. Lee visited the ASML headquarters in Eindhoven for meeting with Peter Wennink, chief executive of ASML.

Samsung Electronics is ASML’s most valuable customer as the Korean chipmaker is unrivaled in migration to next-gen chips. EUV equipment is essential in producing 7-nanometer or below chips.

The two discussed measures to forge partnership in next-generation manufacturing technology for future semiconductor such as in artificial intelligence (AI) sector as well as future semiconductor technology strategy and market prospect to cope with post Covid-19 upon prolonged situation.

Lee also visited ASML’s semiconductor manufacturing equipment production plant and inspected its EUV equipment production environment.

Samsung and ASML have been working closely to test the limitations in chipmaking.

In November, 2016, Lee met with Wennink and other ASML executives at Samsung Electronics headquarters and discussed partnership options on next-generation semiconductor micro processing technology. In February, 2019, they also met in Paris, France, and shared opinions on semiconductor industry.

The latest meeting with Wennink was also attended by Kim Ki-nam, vice chairman and head of Samsung Electronics Device Solutions (DS) division.

Samsung Electronics has forged ties with ASML since 2000 to develop micro semiconductor processing technology and equipment under judgment that EUV technology is essential to realize next-generation semiconductor technology. In 2012, the Korean company enhanced partnership by carrying out a strategic equity investment in ASML.

EUV exposure technology is a technology that uses extreme ultraviolet light to engrave semiconductor circuit on wafer. Compared to existing technology, EUV exposure technology can realize more minute circuit, making it essential in creating advanced, high-performance, low power, and microchips needed in AI, fifth-generation, mobile communication, and autonomous driving.

In addition to system semiconductor, Samsung Electronics has recently started to expand application range of EUV to advanced memory semiconductor area. Its partnership with ASML is gaining traction amid rapid growth in foundry business.

Netherlands was the third overseas destination for Lee under virus restrictions. Lee visited Brazil in January and China in May.

On Wednesday, Samsung Electronics stock closed at 60,900 won ($53.10), the same as the previous day.

By Park Jae-young and Lee Eun-joo

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