Amid growing concerns over the global supply chain due to the recent escalation of military tensions in the Middle East, it appears that there have been no major disruptions to the supply of raw materials and components for the domestic semiconductor industry so far. It is assessed that the likelihood of short-term production disruptions is low, as key raw materials essential for semiconductor production, such as helium and hydrogen bromide, are also maintaining stable inventory levels.

The Korea Semiconductor Industry Association (KSIA) stated in an explanatory document released on the 31st, “Domestic semiconductor companies have secured a certain level of inventory in advance for all major raw materials that have recently become an issue,” adding, “So far, there has been no direct impact on the production process.”

In particular, the explanation is that since companies operate multiple procurement channels, the likelihood of instability in a specific region leading to an immediate supply crisis is not high.

The semiconductor industry has been strengthening its response capabilities while experiencing various supply chain uncertainties, such as the U.S.-China conflict, the pandemic, and logistics disruptions.

The current situation in the Middle East is also showing a different aspect from the past in that a systematic response is being implemented based on such experience.

"An industry official said, 'Diversifying the raw material procurement structure and continuously reviewing the inventory management system in preparation for emergencies is paying off.'"

Cooperation with the government is also being strengthened. Semiconductor companies closely share the status of raw material supply and demand with the government and maintain a joint response system for potential risks.

This is a preemptive measure in preparation for a prolonged crisis in the Middle East and is part of an effort to enhance overall industrial stability.

However, the industry is not entirely optimistic about the situation.

This is because if instability in the Middle East is prolonged, additional variables such as global logistics disruptions or fluctuations in the prices of specific raw materials could arise.

Accordingly, the semiconductor industry plans to cooperate with domestic and international stakeholders to secure alternative suppliers and further strengthen supply chain stability.

An industry official emphasized, “Currently, there are no major supply and demand issues, but uncertainty has not been completely resolved,” adding, “We will maintain the competitiveness of the semiconductor industry through continuous monitoring and preemptive responses.”