Global Silicon Wafer Shipments Rise 6% in Q3 2024, According to SEMI Data

Global shipments of silicon wafers are on the rise, with a 5.9% increase in the third quarter of 2024, driven by demand for advanced wafers in AI technologies and consumer electronics.

The global shipments of silicon wafers have increased by 5.9% quarter-over-quarter.
The demand for advanced wafers, especially in AI technologies, remains robust.
The SMG plays a crucial role in facilitating discussions and sharing vital statistics for the industry's growth.

Silicon Wafer Shipments on the Rise

It’s no secret that the tech world is always in flux, but the latest numbers from the SEMI Silicon Manufacturers Group (SMG) show some promising trends for the silicon wafer industry. In the third quarter of 2024, global shipments surged by 5.9% quarter-over-quarter, reaching a hefty total of 3,214 million square inches (MSI). That’s a solid 6.8% growth compared to the same period last year, when shipments were at 3,010 MSI.

Lee Chungwei, the Chairman of SEMI SMG and Vice President at GlobalWafers, emphasized that this uptick is part of a broader upward trend that kicked off in the second quarter. But what does this mean for the industry and, more importantly, for consumers like us?

Demand Dynamics: AI vs. Automotive

One of the most intriguing aspects of this report is the

demand shift

within the silicon wafer market. While the appetite for advanced wafers—especially those used in AI technologies—remains robust, other sectors are experiencing a different story. Demand for silicon wafers in the automotive and industrial sectors has been somewhat lackluster.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. There’s been a glimmer of hope in the consumer electronics sector, particularly for handsets and related products. Are we seeing a resurgence in consumer tech? It seems so, but the overall picture is still mixed.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Silicon?

As we look toward 2025, the outlook remains cautiously optimistic. While we can expect continued upward trends, total shipments aren’t projected to bounce back to the record highs we saw in 2022 just yet. So, what does this mean for the future of electronics?

Silicon wafers are the unsung heroes of the tech world, serving as the foundational building blocks for most semiconductors. These expertly engineered thin disks, which can be as large as 300 mm in diameter, are where the magic happens. They’re the Substrate material essential for fabricating the semiconductors that power our gadgets—from smartphones to smart cars.

The Role of SEMI SMG

The SMG, a subcommittee of the SEMI Electronic Materials Group (EMG), plays a crucial role in this ecosystem. It’s a collaborative space for SEMI members involved in everything from manufacturing polycrystalline silicon to producing polished silicon wafers. By facilitating discussions on market dynamics and sharing vital statistics, the SMG helps steer the industry toward informed decisions and collective growth.

In a world where technology evolves at lightning speed, staying on top of these trends is essential. So, whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a casual consumer, keep an eye on the silicon wafer market—it’s a key indicator of where our electronic future is headed.

About Our Team

Our team comprises industry insiders with extensive experience in computers, semiconductors, games, and consumer electronics. With decades of collective experience, we’re committed to delivering timely, accurate, and engaging news content to our readers.

Background Information

About MSI:

MSI (Micro-Star International) is a globally recognized company that specializes in the development and manufacturing of a wide range of computer products. With a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1986, MSI has emerged as a key player in the technology industry, consistently delivering innovative solutions that cater to the needs of both casual users and hardcore enthusiasts. The company's product portfolio encompasses a diverse array of products, including motherboards, graphics cards, laptops, desktops, monitors, and various gaming peripherals. MSI's commitment to quality and performance is evident in its dedication to technologies, sleek designs, and rigorous testing standards. for its gaming-focused products under the MSI Gaming brand, the company has earned a reputation for delivering high-performance components that enhance the gaming experience.

Latest Articles about MSI

Technology Explained

Substrate: The technology substrate is a layer of material that provides a foundation for the components of a computer system. It is the foundation upon which the components of a computer system are built. It is usually made of a material such as silicon, which is a semiconductor material. The technology substrate is used to create the circuits and pathways that allow the components of a computer system to communicate with each other. It is also used to create the physical structure of the computer system, such as the motherboard, memory, and other components. The technology substrate is essential for the functioning of a computer system, as it provides the necessary pathways for the components to communicate with each other. It is also used to create the physical structure of the computer system, such as the motherboard, memory, and other components.