The EC consultation on the semiconductors’ value chain

In October 2022, the EU Commission conducted a consultation with companies involved in the European semiconductor value chain. The purpose was to gather information about companies' characteristics, their position in the value chain, dependencies on specific regions, and any shortages or bottlenecks they experienced in the previous year. The collected data was extensive for larger suppliers but insufficient for SMEs and end-user companies. Overall, the results showed that European companies are well integrated into the global value chain, sourcing inputs from and supplying outputs to North America, China, Japan, and other Asian countries. Many respondents had headquarters located outside the EU. A majority of companies reported limited supply of inputs, particularly equipment, chemicals, and gases, in the 12 months prior to the survey. Suppliers faced challenges in delivering their output, and more than half noticed changes in clients' procurement behavior. Almost half of the end-users confirmed disruptions in the value chain, with shortages of mature nodes. Several respondents emphasized the importance of supporting investments and production through EU funds and subsidies. The goal is to develop advanced semiconductor technologies and enhance mature node capacity within the EU. The main areas for improvement identified by respondents were public funding, research and development, and the availability of a qualified workforce.