GlobalWafers Co. reported NT$5.44 billion (US$170 million) in March revenue, a 2.2% increase from February but a 3.9% drop from a year earlier, highlighting the semiconductor industry’s uneven recovery.
The Taiwanese silicon wafer manufacturer posted NT$15.59 billion in first-quarter revenue, down 4.6% from the previous quarter while showing a modest 3.4% year-on-year growth. The mixed results come as the broader semiconductor industry anticipates significant growth in 2025, with the Semiconductor Industry Association projecting double-digit expansion following 19.1% growth in 2024.
Industry analysts point to advanced packaging technologies and affordable AI models as potential catalysts for silicon wafer demand. These technologies are increasing semiconductor penetration across devices and could support long-term growth for wafer suppliers like GlobalWafers, which ranks as the world’s third-largest silicon wafer producer.
The company is expanding its global footprint with new facilities in Texas and Missouri, backed by up to US$400 million in U.S. government subsidies aimed at bolstering domestic semiconductor supply chains. The Texas facility is expected to begin volume production this year.
Despite current market softness, the semiconductor industry’s cyclical nature and growing AI applications suggest potential upside for wafer suppliers as inventory adjustments complete and new capacity comes online.
