Q3 Global Semiconductor Sales Increase 27.6% Year-to-Year

by Semiconductor Industry Association

More semiconductor units shipped in third quarter of 2021 than during any quarter in market’s history, as industry ramps up production amid chip shortage

WASHINGTON—Nov. 1, 2021—The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) today announced worldwide sales of semiconductors totaled $144.8 billion during the third quarter of 2021, an increase of 27.6% over the third quarter of 2020 and 7.4% more than the second quarter of 2021. More semiconductor units were shipped during the third quarter of 2021 than during any other quarter in the market’s history.

Global sales for the month of September 2021 were $48.3 billion, an increase of 27.6% over the total from September 2020 and 2.2% more than sales from August 2021. Monthly sales are compiled by the World Semiconductor Trade Statistics (WSTS) organization and represent a three-month moving average. SIA represents 98% of the U.S. semiconductor industry by revenue and nearly two-thirds of non-U.S. chip firms.

“Semiconductor shipments reached all-time highs in the third quarter of 2021, demonstrating both the ongoing high global demand for chips and the industry’s extraordinary efforts to ramp up production to meet that demand,” said John Neuffer, SIA president and CEO. “Sales into the Americas led the way, increasing more than any other regional market both month-to-month and year-to-year.”

Regionally, year-to-year sales increased in the Americas (33.5%), Europe (32.3%), Asia Pacific/All Other (27.2%), Japan (24.5%), and China (24.0%). Month-to-month sales increased in the Americas (3.9%), Europe (2.0%), Japan (2.0%), Asia Pacific/All Other (1.9%), and China (1.5%).

For comprehensive monthly semiconductor sales data and detailed WSTS forecasts, consider purchasing the WSTS Subscription Package. For detailed historical information about the global semiconductor industry and market, consider ordering the SIA Databook.

September 2021 table and graph