The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) has reported that worldwide semiconductor sales amounted to US$226.3 billion in 2009, down 9% from US$248.6 billion in 2008. The figure surpassed its estimate of US$219.7 billion.
"2009 turned out to be a better year for the global semiconductor industry than expected," according to George Scalise, president of SIA. "A strong focus on inventories throughout the supply chain mitigated the impact of the worldwide economic downturn and positioned the industry for growth as the global economy recovers."
Global chip sales in December 2009 were US$22.4 billion, up 29% from US$17.4 billion in December 2008, SIA said. On a sequential basis, the sales declined by 1.2% from November when sales were US$22.7 billion.
"Sales in the final quarter of 2009 were supported by healthy demand in a variety of end markets including PCs, cell phones, and consumer electronics," said Scalise. Scalise forecast that unit sales of PCs and handsets, which account for about 60% of total semiconductor consumption, will grow in the low-to-mid teens in 2010 providing a solid platform for chip sales. Meanwhile, consumer electronics are expected to grow in the mid-single digits, Scalise added.
SIA expects a return to normal seasonal patterns, which suggests a modest slowdown in the first quarter of 2010.
China and India, two key emerging markets, are also driving demand, according to SIA. In addition to purchasing consumer items such as handsets and computers, both regions are continuing to invest in wired and wireless infrastructure. SIA believes these investments in infrastructure create demand for a broad range of semiconductor products.
Scalise also indicated that attractive price points for new products, such as netbook and tablet computers, are creating new market segments that hadn't previously existed. Overall, he expects the semiconductor industry is well positioned for growth in 2010, with improving consumer confidence and signs of economic recovery around the world.
Article translated by Jessie Shen
