KUALA LUMPUR: Global semiconductor equipment billings reached US$36.55bil in the first quarter of 2026, marking a 14% increase year-over-year and a 1% growth from the previous quarter, according to SEMI’s Worldwide Semiconductor Equipment Market Statistics (WWSEMS) report.
The industry association, which represents the global semiconductor and electronics design and manufacturing supply chain, said the strong performance was driven by continued investments in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, including capacity expansions and technology upgrades across leading-edge logic, DRAM, and advanced packaging.
“The strong start to 2026 reflects continued industry investment in the capacity and infrastructure needed to support AI-driven semiconductor growth,” SEMI President and CEO Ajit Manocha said in a statement.
“Record first-quarter billings highlight ongoing momentum in leading-edge manufacturing and advanced packaging.”
The report highlights sustained demand for advanced semiconductor manufacturing equipment as companies expand production to meet rising AI-related and next-generation electronics requirements.
Regionally, semiconductor equipment revenue was led by China at US$10.99bil, followed by South Korea at US$8.93bil and Taiwan at US$8.77bil. While North America and Japan posted moderate growth and Europe saw steady gains, China experienced a notable 16% drop from the previous quarter.
