The semiconductor equipment market comprises fabrication equipment tools such as wafer fabrication equipment, semiconductor process control diagnostic and inspection systems as well as process material. Semiconductors find widespread applications in electronics such as smartphones, televisions, washing machines and personal computers, thereby witnessing high demand. The increasing demand from electronics industry for sophisticated and compact electronic devices makes semiconductor manufacturing highly technical and complex. Adoption of robotics automation aids in improving production speed, accuracy and reducing operational costs.

The Global Semiconductor Equipment Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 95.97 Bn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 12% over the forecast period 2024 to 2031.

Key Takeaways

Key players operating in the semiconductor equipment market are Northrop Grumman Corporation, BAE Systems, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Clearpath Robotics Inc., John Bean Technologies Corporation, ECA Group, Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd., Endeavor (Now a part of FLIR system), Harris Corporation, and General Dynamics.

Several large chip manufacturers are making significant investments to increase production capacity driven by the global demand for chips. Adoption of advanced technologies such as IoT, AI and 5G are also contributing to the demand growth. Automation through robotics presents significant opportunities to enhance manufacturing efficiencies and meet the ever increasing demand.

Technological advancements such as autonomous guided vehicles, articulating robotic arms, automated tool changers in fabrication tools are enabling higher throughput, repeatability and precision in semiconductor manufacturing processes. Adoption of AI and machine learning is also aiding in predictive maintenance and reducing downtimes.

Market Drivers

The growing demand for electronics devices across the world owing to rapid urbanization, increasing spending capability and digitalization of work processes is one of the key drivers for the semiconductor equipment market. The increasing penetration of IoT and connectivity in industrial control systems and automobiles is also contributing to the rising demand. Shift towards automation driven by requirement of minimal human intervention and shorter production cycles to meet customer expectations further aids the adoption of robotics in semiconductor manufacturing processes.

Current Challenges in Semiconductor Equipment Market

The Semiconductor Equipment Market Demand  is facing challenges related to rising materials costs, uncertainty in demand due to macroeconomic conditions, geopolitical tensions among major trading countries, and supply chain disruptions caused by the Covid pandemic. Materials like silicon wafers, chemicals, and metals used in manufacturing equipment have witnessed sharp price increases. Sudden downturns in demand from important sectors like consumer electronics and automotive could negatively impact equipment sales. High R&D investments required to develop advanced process technologies also put pressure on suppliers.

SWOT Analysis

Strengths: Strong growth opportunities due to ongoing transition to more advanced process nodes below 10nm. Leading players have significant R&D capabilities and economies of scale.
Weaknesses: Massive capital requirements for developing next-gen lithography tools. Dependence on a few large customers increases business risk.
Opportunities: Emerging applications in areas like artificial intelligence, 5G, and autonomous vehicles will spur demand. Outsourcing of fabrication by fabless firms favors independent equipment vendors.
Threats: Intense competition may squeeze profit margins. Trade barriers and geopolitical tensions pose challenges.
Geographically, the Asia Pacific region dominates the market in terms of value, accounting for over 50% share. Countries like Taiwan, South Korea, and China are major production and export hubs for semiconductors as well as equipment. The high density of foundries and IDMs in the region drives heavy investment in latest manufacturing technologies.
The semiconductor equipment market in South and Southeast Asia is projected to expand at the fastest pace during the forecast period. Countries like India, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia offer incentives to attract semiconductor fabricators and boost local manufacturing. This will drive robust growth in demand for equipment to build new fabs and expand capacities.

*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it.