Overview of the semiconductor industry
Semiconductor chips are indispensable in today’s world, with their demand generating billions in revenue for leading semiconductor foundry businesses. The following rankings not only highlight the market leaders in the industry but also illustrate the competitive landscape and the ongoing pursuit for innovation in semiconductor technology.
Leading semiconductor foundries by revenue
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) leads the pack with an impressive 60% revenue share, amounting to nearly $17 billion. Established in 1987, TSMC has grown to become Taiwan’s largest company, manufacturing products for a wide range of clients, including Apple. As a pure-play foundry boasting substantial revenue, TSMC outshines its competitors in the sector.
Samsung’s pursuit for market dominance
Far behind TSMC in foundry revenues is South Korea’s Samsung, which earned $3.4 billion (12.4% of the industry’s revenue) through its semiconductor production activities. Despite trailing TSMC, Samsung continues to invest heavily in research and development in an attempt to close the gap.
Other top companies in the industry
Rounding out the top five are GlobalFoundries from the U.S., United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC) from Taiwan, and Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC) from China, each securing about 6% of Q1 2023’s industry revenue share.
GlobalFoundries: a spin-off success story
It’s worth mentioning that GlobalFoundries was a spin-off from AMD’s manufacturing division when the company shifted to a fabless model in 2009. Since then, GlobalFoundries has emerged as a major player in the semiconductor manufacturing industry.
Industry concentration and barriers to entry
The concentration of the semiconductor industry is strikingly evident, with the top ten foundry companies responsible for a massive 98% of the entire sector’s revenue. This dominance by a select few highlights the limited scope for new entrants and raises concerns regarding monopolistic practices in the industry.
Regional concentration and supply chain risks
Furthermore, 90% of the market is controlled by firms located in just three Asian countries – Taiwan, South Korea, and China. This indicates a high level of regional concentration in the global semiconductor industry. As a result, any disruptions or geopolitical tensions in these countries could potentially have a major impact on the worldwide supply of microchips.
Asia’s prominence in the semiconductor market
These figures highlight the ongoing international impact and expansion of the semiconductor industry within the region. In recent years, the growing demand for advanced technology has propelled the need for semiconductors to an all-time high, with Asia emerging as a prominent player in this sector.
Investments and future prospects in Asia
With significant investments made by both local and international companies, the region is poised to become a powerhouse in semiconductor manufacturing and innovation. This potential growth in the sector further emphasizes the importance of continuous research and development, as well as strategic partnerships, in maintaining a competitive edge in the global semiconductor market.
First Reported on: visualcapitalist.com
FAQ
1. Who are the top foundry companies in the semiconductor industry?
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is the leader with a 60% revenue share, followed by Samsung, GlobalFoundries, United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC), and Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC).
2. What is the significance of TSMC’s 60% revenue share in the semiconductor industry?
TSMC’s huge 60% revenue share demonstrates its market dominance and the significant gap between TSMC and its competitors, as well as emphasizing the limited scope for new entrants in the industry.
3. How competitive is the semiconductor foundry market?
The top ten foundry companies account for 98% of the industry’s revenue, which shows a high level of concentration and competitiveness in the market and limited opportunities for new entrants.
4. How does the regional concentration of the semiconductor industry affect the global market?
With 90% of the market controlled by firms in Taiwan, South Korea, and China, the high regional concentration presents potential supply chain risks. Disruptions or geopolitical tensions in these countries could have a significant impact on the global semiconductor supply.
5. What has contributed to Asia’s prominence in the semiconductor market?
The growing demand for advanced technology has propelled the need for semiconductors, making Asia a key player, thanks to significant investments by both local and international companies in research, development, and manufacturing.
6. What remains essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the global semiconductor market?
Continued investments in research and development, as well as establishing strategic partnerships, are crucial for companies to maintain a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving semiconductor market.
