Global Semiconductors Market Outlook, 2029

The broad implementation of 5G networks is driving up demand for semiconductor components that can handle higher data throughput and reduced latency requirements. Aside from that, the growing global emphasis on renewable energy sources with the highest efficiency is boosting demand for semiconductor solutions in solar panels, wind turbines, and smart grid systems. Furthermore, the healthcare industry is increasingly reliant on semiconductor technology for medical imaging, wearable devices, and diagnostics. These applications necessitate high-performance, low-power circuits for precise data gathering, processing, and transmission.

Furthermore, the research on quantum computing, which has the potential to transform computation, is increasing the demand for sophisticated semiconductor technologies. The automotive industry's increased emphasis on electrification, autonomous driving, and connectivity is one of the primary factors positively influencing the market. Furthermore, increased sales of hybrid and electric vehicles (HEVs) to boost environmental health are driving market expansion. Electric vehicles (EVs) require sophisticated semiconductor components such as power management systems, battery management systems, and high-performance microcontrollers.

Aside from that, the growing usage of sensors, radar systems, cameras, and processing units in self-driving vehicles to navigate and make split-second decisions is creating a positive market picture. Furthermore, increasing demand for in-vehicle connections and entertainment systems is driving market expansion. Another key factor positively influencing the market is the growing need for electronics and connections in both the consumer and industrial sectors. Furthermore, increased sales of smartphones, tablets, and wearable gadgets with enhanced functionality are indicating a positive market outlook.

Aside from that, the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices into smart home gadgets and wearable health monitors is driving market expansion. Furthermore, the growing adoption of Industry 4.0 concepts, which prioritize automation, data interchange, and IoT integration in production, is driving up demand for semiconductors. Furthermore, the growing dependency of renewable energy systems on semiconductor technology is propelling the market.

According to the research report, 'Global Semiconductors Market Outlook, 2029', the market is anticipated to cross USD 1000 Billion by 2029, increasing from USD 670.39 Billion in 2023. The market is expected to grow with 8.77% CAGR by 2024-29. The proliferation of data centers and the growing reliance on cloud computing services are providing a bright outlook for the sector. Furthermore, the digital transformation of enterprises and the proliferation of internet-connected gadgets are increasing data generation. Aside from that, the growing demand for big data analytics is driving semiconductor makers to create high-performance CPUs, memory systems, and storage devices.

These developments allow data centers to process and analyze data more efficiently, giving organizations the flexibility to make data-driven decisions, improve services, and gain a competitive advantage. Furthermore, data centers are using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to improve their operations. AI-powered algorithms are used to manage data centers, allocate resources, and perform predictive maintenance. Geopolitical concerns play an important role in defining the semiconductor business landscape. Tensions between large economies, such as the United States and China, have sparked debate over semiconductor self-sufficiency and the need for strategic investments in R&D.

Governments and industry stakeholders are looking for measures to increase local semiconductor manufacture, minimize dependency on foreign supplies, and improve national security. In terms of innovation, there has been a strong emphasis on developing new semiconductor materials and technologies. The move to smaller semiconductor nodes, such as 7nm and 5nm, has allowed for the development of more compact and energy-efficient processors. Emerging technologies such as quantum computing and neuromorphic computing are also active research topics with the potential to transform the semiconductor landscape in the long term.

Furthermore, the car industry's growing reliance on semiconductor components has created a new dimension in the market. Modern vehicles use a variety of semiconductor-based technologies, such as advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), entertainment systems, and electric vehicle components. The automotive sector's increased demand for semiconductors has put further strain on supply chains, emphasizing the importance of a resilient and adaptive semiconductor ecosystem.

Market Drivers

• Technological advancements and innovation: The rapid rate of technical improvement and innovation is a major driver of the global semiconductor market. The semiconductor industry is distinguished by an ongoing search for smaller, more efficient, and more powerful devices. Moore's Law, which states that the number of transistors on a chip doubles approximately every two years, has served as a guiding concept. The semiconductor market has grown in response to the need for cutting-edge technologies like 5G communication, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT). Manufacturers are constantly under pressure to design and create semiconductors that can meet the changing needs of diverse industries, adding to the market's long-term growth.
• Rising demand for electronic devices: The widespread integration of electronic devices into all aspects of modern life has resulted in an insatiable global demand for semiconductors. Semiconductors are the basic components that power smartphones and computers, as well as smart appliances and wearable devices. The growing interconnectedness and digitization of different industries, including healthcare, automotive, and manufacturing, adds to the demand. Consumer expectations for more complex and feature-rich electronic products continue to climb, resulting in constant and solid demand for semiconductor products.

Market Challenges

• Supply chain disruptions: The ongoing possibility of supply chain disruptions is one of the most serious concerns confronting the global semiconductor sector. This issue has risen to prominence in recent years, exacerbated by incidents such as the COVID-19 epidemic. The semiconductor industry is built on sophisticated, internationally integrated supply chains that source crucial components and materials from many countries. Any disturbance, whether caused by a global health crisis, natural disasters, geopolitical tensions, or other unforeseen occurrences, can result in severe delays in manufacturing and essential semiconductor component shortages. This vulnerability has highlighted the need for semiconductor manufacturers to develop more resilient and diverse supply chain methods.
• Shortages and high demand: The semiconductor market has faced continuous shortages, particularly in light of rising worldwide demand. The expansion of electronic gadgets, the introduction of 5G technology, and the growing use of artificial intelligence and IoT applications have all contributed to an unprecedented demand for advanced semiconductors. However, semiconductor makers have had problems increasing production to satisfy this demand. The complex manufacturing methods and time necessary to develop new production facilities make it difficult for the sector to respond promptly to demand spikes. This supply-demand imbalance has resulted in growing competition among businesses for semiconductor resources, as well as calls for more investment in production capacity.

Market Trends

• Technological advancements and shrinking semiconductor nodes: One notable trend in the global semiconductor market is the continual pursuit of technological advances, particularly smaller semiconductor nodes. As manufacturers strive for increased efficiency and performance, the size of transistors and other semiconductor components has consistently decreased. The transition to smaller nodes, such as 7nm and 5nm, has enabled the development of processors that are not only more compact but also more energy-efficient. This trend is being driven by the need for increased processing power, longer battery life in mobile devices, and a general desire for more powerful and efficient computing solutions across industries.
• Automotive industry's growing reliance on semiconductors: The automotive industry's growing reliance on semiconductor components is a significant trend affecting the semiconductor market. Modern vehicles use a wide range of semiconductor-based technologies, including advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), entertainment systems, and electric vehicle components. The increased demand for electric vehicles, combined with the integration of self-driving technologies, has resulted in an increase in semiconductor requirements from the automotive industry. This has highlighted the importance of effective supply chain management and strategic alliances in addressing the unique problems of the automotive semiconductor sector.

COVID-19 Impact

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant influence on the worldwide semiconductor industry, disrupting the supply chain and changing market dynamics. Factory closures, workforce difficulties, and international trade and travel restrictions all contributed to a slowdown in semiconductor output. Simultaneously, increased demand for electronics, remote work technology, and healthcare-related gadgets caused a supply-demand imbalance. The automotive industry, a key consumer of semiconductors, experienced manufacturing delays as a result of chip shortages. As a result, semiconductor makers and their clients had to adjust to a fast shifting landscape, emphasizing the importance of resilient supply chains, intelligent inventory management, and improved collaboration in navigating the pandemic's uncertainties.

The device type segment of the market includes memory device, logic semiconductors, microprocessor unit, analog IC, opto semiconductor, discrete semiconductor, power semiconductor, micro controller unit, digital signal processors and semiconductor sensors. Among them memory device type is expected to lead the global semiconductor market during the forecast period.

The memory device type, which includes various types of storage solutions such as NAND flash memory and DRAM, is expected to dominate the worldwide semiconductor market throughout the projection period. This dominance is being driven by the enormous increase in data creation and consumption in the digital age. With the rise of smartphones, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT), there is a never-ending demand for high-capacity, high-performance memory devices. The growing reliance on data-intensive applications, such as streaming services and artificial intelligence algorithms, highlights the importance of memory devices in efficiently storing and retrieving large volumes of information.

Consumer electronics, a crucial driver of the semiconductor sector, plays an important role in memory devices' rise to prominence. Smartphones, tablets, laptop computers, and other personal devices rely largely on NAND flash memory for storage and DRAM for rapid data access. As these devices evolve to satisfy user expectations for faster processor speeds, better multitasking capabilities, and improved graphics, the demand for sophisticated memory solutions grows. Memory devices play an important role in defining the user experience in modern gadgets, making them essential components in the highly competitive consumer electronics market.

The increasing ubiquity of cloud computing and the construction of data center infrastructure reinforce memory devices dominant position in the semiconductor market. Both NAND flash memory and DRAM are required for cloud-based services because they provide the storage and quick data access needed for smooth user experiences. As more businesses and individuals adopt cloud solutions for big data storage, processing, and analysis, demand for high-performance memory devices is expected to skyrocket. Memory devices not only serve the backend architecture of data centers, but they also improve the efficiency of edge computing devices deployed across several networks.

Based on application segment market is divided into networking & communications, data centre/ data processing, consumer electronics, industrial, automotive, government, healthcare, aerospace and defense and others. Among them networking and communication is major application for semiconductor globally.

In the present digital age, information and communication technology pervade all parts of daily life. Semiconductors are the foundation for the devices and systems that power communication networks, including smartphones, laptops, routers, switches, and network infrastructure components. Semiconductors are essential for facilitating flawless connections and data transmission due to their widespread adoption. Semiconductors play a critical role in data transmission and processing in network systems. Microprocessors, microcontrollers, and specialized communication chips enable the rapid and efficient flow of data between devices.

As data volumes grow, high-performance semiconductor components become increasingly important for managing the needs of real-time communication, maintaining low latency, and meeting the bandwidth requirements of current applications. The growth of wireless technologies, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular networks, is primarily dependent on semiconductor devices. To enable wireless communication, mobile devices like smartphones and tablets use a range of semiconductor components, such as radio frequency (RF) chips, baseband processors, and memory devices. The growth of mobile communication standards, such as the transition to 5G, increases demand for innovative semiconductor technologies.

High-performance semiconductors are used in networking infrastructure, such as routers, switches, and data center equipment, to efficiently handle and direct data traffic. Cloud computing, the foundation of many internet services and applications, is primarily reliant on semiconductor technology for data storage, processing, and communication between servers.

The Asia Pacific region is expected to lead the global semiconductor market and is predicted to grow at fastest rate as well during the anticipated time frame.

Asia Pacific is distinguished by a large customer base, rising disposable income, increased demand for industrial processing and consumer electronics, growing urbanization, and rapid industrialization. All of these reasons have contributed to increased semiconductor usage. Furthermore, countries with strong electronics industries include China, Taiwan, and South Korea. The rising use of a diverse variety of consumer electronics has greatly aided market expansion in this region. Furthermore, increased adoption of IoT devices, AI, and VR are key factors driving market growth in the coming years.

Taiwan, home to major semiconductor giants like TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company), is an important player in the worldwide semiconductor market. TSMC is the world's biggest independent semiconductor foundry, renowned for its cutting-edge manufacturing procedures. Taiwan's competence in semiconductor production, as well as its leadership in the development of innovative process technologies, helps to solidify the region's dominance. China has emerged as a significant player in the global semiconductor market. The Chinese government has made significant investments to promote a competitive semiconductor industry, including domestic fab development and talent attraction measures.

While encountering some problems, China's expanding semiconductor ecosystem contributes greatly to the Asia-Pacific region's overall dominant position. Asia-Pacific is home to some of the world's largest consumer electronics and technology companies. The massive demand for semiconductors from these businesses, which include smartphones, laptops, and other electronic devices, contributes to the region's supremacy. The presence of large technology markets, such as China, Japan, and South Korea, provides a steady and significant market for semiconductor devices.

The global semiconductor market is extremely competitive, with significant industry players driving innovation, technological improvements, and market expansion. Leading semiconductor manufacturers, like Intel Corporation, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), play important roles by using their considerable production capabilities and expertise in developing innovative semiconductor components. Furthermore, Qualcomm, NVIDIA, and AMD are major players in specific categories, such as mobile processors, graphics processing units (GPUs), and other specialized devices.

The business also sees collaboration and partnerships, with companies forging strategic alliances to boost R&D efforts and meet changing market demands. As the market continues to evolve with the rise of upcoming technologies such as 5G, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things, competition intensifies, prompting companies to invest in talent, research, and cutting-edge manufacturing processes to maintain a competitive edge in this dynamic and rapidly evolving landscape.

• The Indian government has recently announced to boost its manufacturing capacity for semiconductors. The government has also launched a program ‘Semicon’ to promote the production of semiconductors in the country with an outlay of Rs.76,000 crore.
• The CHIPS Act 2022 by the United States government includes $52 billion for chip manufacturing, the act also offers incentives and tax credit for semiconductor manufacturing companies. The element under this act is supposed to support the production and manufacturing of semiconductor chips by strengthening the nation’s semiconductor market.
• According to the Semiconductor Industry Association, the United States exported $61.1 billion in semiconductors in 2022.
• Intel, one of the most prominent manufacturers of semiconductor chips stated in January 2023 that it has invested $20 billion in two new semiconductor chips factories in Ohio.
• In 2022, China established total 433 new companies for chip design and production. The total sales of Chinese semiconductor companies increased to $573 billion.
• In March 2023, the United States exported semiconductor devices to Mexico worth 125 million.
• The Canadian government has planned to spend $181.94 million on the country’s domestic semiconductor production industry.

Considered in this report

• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report

• Semiconductor market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Device type

• Memory Device
• Logic Semiconductors
• Microprocessor Unit
• Analog IC
• Op to Semiconductor
• Discrete Semiconductor
• Power Semiconductor
• Micro Controller Unit
• Digital Signal Processors
• Semiconductor Sensors

By Application

• Networking & Communications
• Data Centre/ Data Processing
• Consumer Electronics
• Industrial
• Automotive
• Government
• Healthcare
• Aerospace and Defence
• Others

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the Semiconductor industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.