Global silicon wafer shipments achieved a new record in the third quarter of 2022.

According to a report recently released by SEMI, the global semiconductor industry association representing the supply chain, global silicon wafer shipments in the third quarter of 2022 increased approximately 1% from the previous quarter to 3.741 billion square inches. This quarter represents approximately 2.5% growth compared to the same period last year.

This data includes polished silicon wafers such as virgin test and epitaxial silicon wafers as well as non-polished silicon wafers.

Since silicon wafers are a core material in semiconductor manufacturing, they are essential components in virtually all electronic products including computers, telecommunications equipment, and consumer electronics. Precisely processed silicon discs are produced in various diameters ranging from 1 inch to 12 inches and are used as substrate materials on which most semiconductor chips are manufactured.

Anna-Liisa Buorikari-Antikkainen, COO of Okmetic and chairman of SEMI's Silicon Manufacturers Group (SEMI SMG), stated, "Although the semiconductor industry faces macroeconomic headwinds, the silicon industry continues to see quarterly shipment increases. Since silicon wafers are the foundation of advanced industries, we are confident in long-term growth."