Global semiconductor sales up 18.8% in Q1

March recorded the highest sales total at $55.9b

Global semiconductor sales soared to $167.7b in the first quarter of 2025, with a remarkable increase of 18.8% compared to the same period last year, the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) announced May 5.

This signals continued strength in global chip demand. However, it is worth noting that sales experienced a 2.1% decline compared to the fourth quarter of 2024.

March 2025 was particularly noteworthy, achieving the highest sales total ever recorded for that month at $55.9b, which represents a 1.8% increase over February's total of $54.9 billion. This monthly data is gathered by the World Semiconductor Trade Statistics organisation, reflecting a three-month moving average of sales performance.

SIA president and CEO John Neuffer commented on the robust demand, stating, “Global semiconductor demand remains high, with first-quarter sales substantially outpacing those of last year.” He pointed to the 11th consecutive month of year-over-year growth, reporting a staggering 45% sales increase in the Americas alone.

Regional performance revealed diverse trends; year-over-year sales in March enjoyed substantial boosts in the Americas (up 45.3%), Asia Pacific/All Other (up 15.4%), China (up 7.6%), and Japan (up 5.8%). In contrast, Europe saw a slight decline of 2.0% on a year-to-year basis. Monthly comparisons for March surprised analysts with increases in Europe (5.7%), Asia Pacific/All Other (3.6%), and China (2.4%), despite slight decreases in the Americas (-0.4%) and Japan (-0.4%).

This data emphasises the semiconductor industry's resilient nature as it navigates fluctuating global markets and underscores the increasing importance of chips across various sectors of the economy.