SAN JOSE, USA: Electronic components are the fundamental building blocks in all kinds of electronic devices and appliances. Primary end-users of electronic components are original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Demand for electronic components is primarily influenced by the prevalent conditions in end-use markets such as telecom, computing and consumer electronics. Electronic components market is highly fragmented, characterized by the presence of a large number of manufacturers.

Introduction of sophisticated electronic components rapidly increased the range of end served markets. Additionally, the use of passive components by integrated circuits is also increasing. On an average, each IC has 20 passive components and increasing usage of passives by ICs is likely to continue. Against this backdrop, worldwide sales of electronic components are expected to be over $169 billion by 2010.

The global market for electronic components is likely to register a CAGR of 7.1 percent through the period 2001-2010. Worldwide printed wiring boards market is expected to retain its domination of the electronic components market to exceed $71 billion by 2010. Printed wiring boards segment is also expected to offer the highest growth potential over the period.

The connectors market is expected to offer the second highest growth potential of 7.1 percent, compounded annually over the period 2001-2010. Asia-Pacific is estimated to account for a share of about 27.9 percent of the global electronic components market in 2007, and also offer the highest growth potential with the CAGR expected to hover around 12.7 percent over the period 2001-2010. Europe, the second largest market for electronic components is estimated at $34.5 billion in 2007. The United States represents the largest market for connectors and switches in the world.