WASHINGTON – Worldwide sales of semiconductors reached $37.6 billion in January, an increase of 22.7% year-over-year, says the Semiconductor Industry Association. Sequentially sales were down 1%, reflecting normal seasonal market trends.

All monthly sales numbers are compiled by the World Semiconductor Trade Statistics (WSTS) organization and represent a three-month moving average.

“After notching its highest-ever annual sales in 2017, the global semiconductor industry is off to a strong and promising start to 2018, posting its highest ever January sales and 18th consecutive month of year-to-year sales increases,” said John Neuffer, president and CEO, SIA. “All major regional markets saw double-digit growth compared to last year, with the Americas leading the away with year-to-year growth of more than 40%. With year-to-year sales also up across all major semiconductor product categories, the global market is well-positioned for a strong start to 2018.”

Year-over-year sales increased substantially across all regions: the Americas (40.6%), Europe (19.9%), Asia Pacific/All Other (18.6%), China, (18.3%), and Japan (15.1%). Sequential sales increased slightly in Europe (0.9%), held flat in China, but fell somewhat in Asia Pacific/All Other (0.6%), Japan (1%), and the Americas (3.6%).