IPC publishes PCB production and laminate market report for 2006

IPC recently issued World PCB Production and Laminate Market Report for the Year 2006. Based on the best data available, the report shows that the world PCB market expanded in 2006, for the third year in a row. At $47.6 billion, it grew 11.7 percent in nominal terms (not inflation-adjusted), and has surpassed its year-2000 peak.

Viewed by many in the industry as the definitive source on worldwide PCB production, the report highlights world production of PCBs by the top-ten producing countries; provides special analysis on flexible printed circuits and general commentary on the worldwide PCB industry; reveals laminate market details by region; and presents exchange rates and information on historical world rigid PCB production.

"The report is the product of a consensus process involving the world's leading analysts in our industry," explains Sharon Starr, IPC director of market research. "It should prove useful to all tiers of the world electronics chain."

According to the report, PCB growth has outpaced economic growth and the growth of most other industries, thanks to the growing demand for electronic products. In addition, Asia has continued to grow to 81 percent of world PCB production, while Europe and North America continued to lose some share. China has outpaced most other countries in PCB production growth. Though slowing, China's growth is about twice the global rate of growth for PCB production.

The report is only available to members of IPC's Executive Market and Technology Forum. For additional information about membership in the Executive Forum, IPC statistical programs and other market research reports, visit www.ipc.org/MarketResearch contact Starr at +1 847-597-2817 or SharonStarr@ipc.org