Semiconductor equipment billings hit US$36.55bn
SEMI reports double-digit annual growth in semiconductor equipment spending, driven by AI infrastructure investments, leading-edge manufacturing, and advanced packaging expansion.
Global semiconductor equipment billings totaled US$36.55 billion in the first quarter of 2026, representing a 14% increase compared with the same period last year and a 1% rise from the previous quarter, according to SEMI’s Worldwide Semiconductor Equipment Market Statistics (WWSEMS) report.
The industry association attributed the strong performance to continued investment in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, including capacity expansions and technology upgrades across leading-edge logic, DRAM, and advanced packaging facilities.
“The strong start to 2026 reflects continued industry investment in the capacity and infrastructure needed to support AI-driven semiconductor growth,” said Ajit Manocha, president and CEO of SEMI. “Record first-quarter billings highlight ongoing momentum in leading-edge manufacturing and advanced packaging.”
The figures underscore sustained demand for semiconductor manufacturing equipment as chipmakers and supply chain partners expand production capabilities to support AI workloads and next-generation electronic systems.
China remained the largest regional market for semiconductor equipment during the quarter, generating US$10.99 billion in billings. South Korea followed with US$8.93 billion, while Taiwan recorded US$8.77 billion.
North America and Japan posted moderate growth, and Europe continued to see steady gains. China, however, experienced a 16% decline compared with the previous quarter.
The latest results highlight the industry's continued focus on scaling manufacturing capacity and deploying advanced process technologies as demand for AI accelerators, high-bandwidth memory, and advanced packaging solutions continues to grow.
