Global semiconductorEquipment ImportsChanging landscape

The global semiconductor equipment market is projected to exceed $180 billion in 2025, with China maintaining its position as the largest importer. However, due toWassenaar Arrangement technology control listupdates, imported equipment shows clear divergence trends:

• Import volume of 28nm and above mature process equipment increased 23% year-on-year
• Import of cutting-edge equipment like EUV lithography machines decreased 42% year-on-year
• Second-hand equipment transactions rose to 37% (15% increase compared to 2023)

Key points of risk control in the entire import process

Taking the import of deposition equipment for a 12-inch wafer fab as an example, the typical risk matrix includes:

• Technical compliance risks
  • Whether the equipment technical parameters comply with the 2025 version of the Dual-Use Items List
  • Whether the software modules contain restricted algorithms
• Logistics execution risks
  • Anti-vibration transportation solution for ultra-precision components (flatness ≤0.05μm)
  • Real-time monitoring system for constant temperature and humidity containers

Tariff optimization and trade remedy strategies

The core value of professional agency is reflected inPre-review mechanism for tariff classification:

• Avoid misclassifying "chemical vapor deposition equipment" (8% tariff) as "ordinary vacuum equipment" (12% tariff).
• Utilizing the cumulative rules of origin under the RCEP agreement, a Japanese equipment achieved a 7.2% tariff reduction

New challenges in technical compliance for 2025

The latest regulatory requirements bring three major changes:

• Data Security Review: Equipment control systems must pass CCRC Level 3 certification
• Component traceability: Key modules require Level 3 supplier certification documents
• On-site verification: Customs technology centers have added wafer contact surface inspection items

Typical service case analysis

When a third-generation semiconductor company imported MOCVD equipment, we achieved:

• Applying in advance for the pre-review code of Dual-Use Items Import License
• Designing a segmented transportation plan (Singapore-Hong Kong-Shenzhen land transport)
• Implementing ATA Carnet guaranteed customs clearance

Finally achieveReducing overall customs clearance time by 11 days, avoiding $3 million equipment loss due to temperature fluctuations.

Golden Standards for Selecting Agency Services

• Whether having a dedicated semiconductor industry service team (including at least 3 licensed customs brokers + 2 electromechanical experts)
• Whether establishing a technical parameter database for major equipment manufacturers (recommended coverage of TOP10 manufacturers such as ASML, TEL, AMAT)
• Whether equipped with CCIC-certified on-site inspection capability