The Chinese government has announced a provisional determination concerning Japanese companies over the specialty gas “dichlorosilane,” prompting concerns about the impact on semiconductor manufacturing operations and increasing uncertainty over exports.
China’s Ministry of Commerce has reportedly provisionally determined that Japanese companies exported goods at unfairly low prices. The product concerned is the specialty gas “dichlorosilane,” which is used in semiconductor manufacturing, and several Japanese companies are subject to the determination.
The gas is considered an important material used to form thin silicon films during semiconductor manufacturing. Japanese representatives stationed in China have highlighted its high quality while pointing to the possibility that customers may increasingly switch to Chinese companies.
Japanese companies are concerned that uncertainty may arise over future export trends and supply arrangements, and some observers say businesses may be forced to reassess their operating environment, including political risks.
The government’s determination is provisional, and the parties concerned may reportedly file appeals within 10 days.