Market Trends of Global Semiconductor Device Industry
Communication Industry to be the Largest End User
- Semiconductors play a pivotal role in wired communications, encompassing ethernet controllers, adapters, and switches. They feature Power over Ethernet (PoE) interface controllers, crucial for supporting Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), alongside powerline transceivers.
- In wireless communication, semiconductors are used in microwave, infrared, satellite, broadcast radio, mobile communications systems, Wi-Fi, and technologies such as Bluetooth and Zigbee. System-on-chip (SoC) and field-programmable gate array (FPGA) devices drive the evolution of wireless communication systems, notably 5G. Meanwhile, low-energy microcontrollers (MCUs) are pivotal in enhancing Bluetooth functionalities. Wireless sensor networks find applications in diverse fields, from environmental and structural monitoring to asset tracking.
- The market for semiconductors that power wireless communication is undergoing significant change with the increasing implementation of 5G. According to the GSMA, in 2025, the share of 5G mobile connections of total connections in South Korea and Japan are anticipated to account for 73% and 68%, respectively. Further, 95% of mobile connections will be 5G by 2030 in GCC states and 93% in Asia. The increasing adoption of 5G smartphones and networks creates new market opportunities.
- According to 5Gamericas.org, in 2023, the global count of fifth-generation (5G) subscriptions hit an estimated 1.9 billion, projected to soar to 8 billion by 2028. Compared to its predecessors, 5G technology boasts faster download speeds and significantly lower latency.
Understand The Key Trends Shaping This Market
Download PDF
China to Witness Significant Growth
- Over the years, China's semiconductor industry has rapidly expanded and become one of the largest consumers of chips in the world. China aims to reduce its dependence on imported semiconductor components by developing a robust domestic supply chain.
- For instance, in May 2024, China established the third phase of a government-supported investment fund to expand its domestic semiconductor industry, which is the most significant phase to date. This move highlights China's determination to achieve self-sufficiency in light of US sanctions.
- The fund has a total registered capital of CNY 344 billion (USD 47.5 billion). The China Integrated Circuit Industry Investment Fund offers funding to the country's top two chip foundries, Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation and Hua Hong Semiconductor, and a few smaller companies.
- Moreover, the rapid growth of the consumer electronics industry, the government's efforts to promote domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign technology, which have led to increased investment in semiconductor production facilities, the rise of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and internet of things, and the increasing demand for electric vehicles.
- The robust telecom industry in China is also a significant market driver. For instance, according to the National Bureau of Statistics of China, in March 2023, China generated a cumulative revenue of about CNY 151 billion (20.79 USD Billion) from its telecommunications industry. It had a year-on-year growth rate of approximately 4.8% that month.
Get Analysis on Important Geographic Markets
Download PDF
