Silicon suppliers are expecting wafer shipments to continue to grow on an annual basis through 2010, according to a new survey from SEMI. The results show silicon shipments reaching 8,696 million square inches in 2007, 9,695 million square inches in 2008, 10,257 million square inches in 2009, and 10,840 million square inches in 2010. 

"Growth in silicon shipments continues to be driven by 300mm," said Dr.Volker Braetsch, Chairman SEMI SMG and Corporate Vice President of Siltronic AG. "Total 300mm area is expected to exceed total 200 mm area by next year. Yet, 200mm wafers will likely continue to be an important part of the market."

According to the survey, wafer growth will experience an average CAGR of 8% from 2006 - 2010.