The latest figures from the Semiconductor Industry Association show global semiconductor sales climbed slightly over February, reaching US$14.7 billion, a 3.3% increase, compared to US$14.2 billion in February. First quarter sales reached US$44.0 billion, a 29.9% decline from the first quarter of 2008 when sales were US$62.8 billion.
The slight improvement in IC sales in March, mirror’s recent financial results and commentaries that a bottom had been reached and March sales were better than the two previous months sales.
On a regional basis, sales in all geographic regions except Japan showed month-to-month gains. All geographic regions reported lower first-quarter sales compared to the same period of 2008.
“The modest sequential rebound in worldwide sales in March suggests that demand has stabilized somewhat, albeit at substantially lower levels than last year,” said SIA President George Scalise. “While all major product sectors showed month-on-month growth, there continues to be limited visibility in end markets.”
Scalise said that ‘smart phones’ and ‘netbook’ PCs were some of bright spots in the market. However, economic stimulus packages announced by major industrial nations would not have an impact on IC sales until 2010.