The electronics industry has entered 2024 experiencing a dynamic blend of opportunities and challenges, as detailed in recent articles from Evertiq. Being a sector that is constantly evolving, it has witnessed significant trends and adaptations, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) automation and semiconductor technology. This year is expected to shape future business practices while addressing the persistent issues that have affected the industry.
A prominent theme this year has been the rising significance of silicon carbide (SiC) as a vital material for power electronics. Evertiq acknowledged this trend in the article titled “Five companies control the SiC power market,” where it identified the key players in the SiC power semiconductor landscape. Notably, a keynote presentation by Yole Group at Evertiq's inaugural Expo held in Sophia Antipolis, France, analysed the market direction, investments, and competitive environment influencing SiC's future in Europe, leading to insights shared in “What is the future for SiC in Europe?”
The role of SiC is particularly crucial in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, as showcased in articles such as “SiC powers the EV revolution and ST aims to meet demand,” and “R&D, partnerships, and expansion: ST’s strategy for SiC growth.” These pieces highlighted how companies like STMicroelectronics are intensifying their investment in research and development as well as expanding their production capacities to match the escalating demand for SiC components.
Amidst advancements in manufacturing, the industry continues to grapple with the legacy of the semiconductor shortage, which has spurred extensive debate. Evertiq's articles “Was there ever a semiconductor shortage?” and “A misunderstood crisis: the semiconductor 'shortage'” provided a critical examination of the crisis narrative, exploring the structural issues, unexpected spikes in demand, and inventory management strategies that influenced this period of turmoil.
The situation within the European electronics manufacturing landscape has become particularly complex. The articles “The state of the European EMS industry 2024” and “The European electronics industry risks falling behind” provided a dual perspective of growth potential coupled with consolidation challenges, while “The European PCB industry is in jeopardy” highlighted the vulnerabilities facing this sector. Notably, a striking revelation in the report “65% of all imported PCBs in Europe come from China” raised significant concerns about supply chain stability and geopolitical risks inherent in the current model.
Furthermore, the closure of another PCB factory in Europe serves as a clear indication of the escalating difficulties local manufacturers encounter, as mentioned in "Europe loses another PCB factory." These developments have led to discussions on the urgent need for strategic investments to bolster local production capabilities. Articles like “How can Europe save its PCB industry?” and “Europe needs PCB manufacturing; silicon isn't enough” reinforced the notion that revitalising Europe’s manufacturing base is essential to maintaining competitiveness in an increasingly interconnected and technologically advanced global marketplace.
As the industry gears up for significant changes on the horizon in 2025 and beyond, the insights generated from the key stories this year will continue to shape the foundational understanding of both the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for businesses in the electronics sector. The evolving landscape also suggests a growing influence of AI automation in streamlining processes and enhancing productivity, a factor that businesses will need to integrate into their strategies moving forward. Evertiq remains committed to providing ongoing insights, news, and analysis relevant to the pulse of the electronics industry.
Source: Noah Wire Services