AMSTERDAM, March 19 (Reuters) - Computer chip makers and

semiconductor supply chain firms on Wednesday called on the

European Commission to launch a new support program as a follow

up to the 2023 Chips Act, this time focusing on chip design,

materials and equipment, in addition to manufacturing.

Following a meeting with top sector firms and European

lawmakers in Brussels, industry groups ESIA, representing

chipmakers, and SEMI Europe, representing the broader industry,

said they would send their plea for a 'Chips Act 2.0' to

Commission digital chief Henna Virkkunen.