Taiwan memory IC makers rev to stay flat for Q1 2010

TAIPEI: Revenues for the first quarter of 2010 of Elite Semiconductor Memory Technology (ESMT), Zentel Electronics and Etron Technology, niche memory IC makers based in Taiwan, are expected to stay almost flat owing to a rebound in demand and the exit from the segment of the Semiconductor Manufacturing International (SMIC).

According to market analysts, supply of 512MB and 1GB niche memory products is tightening on account of a recovery in demand from sectors such as the LCD TV, digital still camera (DSC) and set-top box (STB).

The withdrawal of the Semiconductor Manufacturing International from the niche memory IC market and the Korea-based manufacturers adjusting their capacity to concentrate more on the production of DRAM also have contributed to widening of the gap between supply and demand.

Market sources indicated that the niche memory IC makers based in Taiwan may jack up their prices following increased costs and maintain margins.

Reports say that foundries based in Taiwan will increase 12-inch production quotes since they are running at near-full capacity.