Component orders remain stable amid uncertainty

Amid the uncertainty of war and SARS, component orders remained flat in the first quarter of 2003, according to the monthly index issued by the Electronic Components, Assemblies & Materials Association (ECA).Consumer spending and confidence might be more influenced by the war and general economic instability than by industrial factors, says Bob Willis, ECA president. There will be opportunities and renewed growth on the other side of the current world instabilities. The question continues to be how long we will have to wait before we reach the other side.Most companies are still trying to balance capacity with demand, which could lead to spot shortages for some components. A major unknown is capacity movement in Asia, particularly China, that could alter requirements in the near future.For more information, visit www.ec-central.org Source: PCBnewsline