World semiconductor sales up 5 percent

World semiconductor sales grew more than 5 percent in September as demand remained robust and driven by brisk markets for cell phones and personal computers.

The Semiconductor Industry Association said sales grew to $19.6 billion September, a 5.2-percent increase over the $18.6 billion recorded in August.

"Global semiconductor sales were very strong in September despite earlier concerns that rising energy prices and declining consumer confidence would impact sales of electronic products," said SIA President George Scalise. "The September numbers show strong demand across most major product lines."

Third quarter sales totaled $58.7 billion, nearly 9 percent over second-quarter sales.

The association said sales for the entire year were on a trajectory to reach $226 billion.

Copyright 2005 by United Press International