Global semiconductor sales down in 3Q: SEMI

Worldwide semiconductor manufacturing equipment sales fell by 6pc in the third quarter from the same year-earlier period, even as North American sales nearly doubled.

Semiconductor manufacturing equipment billings totaled $14.9bn in the third quarter, down from $15.8bn in the prior year period, according to industry association Semiconductor Equipment and Material International (SEMI).

North America and Taiwan were the only two regions to post an increase in sales, partially offsetting the broader global decline. North American billings grew by 96pc to $2.5bn in the third quarter from the year prior, while Taiwan billings rose 34pc to $3.9bn over the same period.

Sales in Europe declined by 54pc to $390mn in the third quarter from the year earlier.

Billings in South Korea fell by 36pc to $2.2bn and billings in Japan decreased by 30pc to $1.7bn. China semiconductor sales dropped by 14pc to $3.4bn from a year earlier.

Bookings across the rest of the world posted a 23pc decline to $760mn.

The sales data represents more than 80 global equipment companies.

Semiconductor sales are used as a proxy for demand outlook for polysilicon and electronic metals, including germanium, gallium and indium.

By Nicholas Bell