Global silicon wafer shipments in 2022 are projected to reach a new record high due to strong demand.

SEMI, an industry association representing the global electronics industry supply chain, said global silicon wafer shipments will reach 14.7 billion square inches in 2022, a 4.8% increase from the previous year.

This outlook is attributed to increased silicon wafer production in 2022 due to strong demand for semiconductors.

Looking ahead, wafer shipments are expected to slow in 2023 due to a slowdown in the global macroeconomy, but growth is expected to continue from 2024 onwards due to strong demand for semiconductors used in data centers, automotive, and industrial applications.

Meanwhile, silicon wafers are a key material for semiconductor manufacturing, making them an essential component of virtually all electronic products, including computers, telecommunications products, and consumer electronics. These precisely machined silicon disks are produced in diameters ranging from one inch to twelve inches and serve as the substrate upon which most semiconductor chips are manufactured.

The data cited in this announcement includes polished silicon wafers and epitaxial silicon wafers, and does not include non-polished wafers or reclaimed wafers.