The decline in Europe is more than twice as strong as that of the world semiconductor market 2009: minus 9%). The decline rate for the different sectors: ICs with 21.7%, opto-semiconductors with 20.2% und sensors/ actuators with 18.1%. An even more pronounced decline was recorded for discrete components - a decline of 28.2%.

"In 2010, the European semiconductor market will recover, with sales figures to increase by 19% to almost $36 billion. However, reaching the maximum level of 2007 is still a long way away" said Dr. Ulrich Schaefer, chairman of the Technical Unit Semiconductor Devices in the German Industry Association ZVEI Electronic Components and Systems.

Despite a sales decrease of 18% in 2009, Information Technology remained strongest segment in Europe - with a market share of 33%. The automotive sector - with a decline in turnover of 23% and thus dropping to a market share of 20% - is now in position 3. The Automotive segment was passed by Communications - with a market share of 21% (despite a decline in turnover of 18%).

The segment Industrial Electronics - with a decline in sales of 26% - now holds a market share of 17%. The segment Consumer Electronics has a market share of 9%. However, the sales decline of 33% in 2009 only resulted in the loss of on e percentage point.