# of Fabrication Plants
The semiconductor industry is the cornerstone of the modern digital age, underpinning advances in a diverse range of sectors, from communication to transportation, healthcare to defense. A keen understanding of the global semiconductor manufacturing landscape is crucial given its importance to everything we do in today's interconnected world, where a chip shortage can disrupt entire markets and economies. According to recent public data, different countries across the world host varying numbers of semiconductor fabrication plants - specialized factories where these essential components are created. Contrary to popular belief, the majority of these fabrication plants are not concentrated in a single country. Key findings from the data include:
With an impressive count of 102 fabrication plants, Japan stands tall as the leading country in the semiconductor industry. Home to industry giants like Sony and Toshiba, Japan's prominent role in the sector is well established. Followed closely by Japan, Taiwan hosts 77 fabrication plants. It's no surprise that Taiwan boasts such figures, given that it houses the world’s largest dedicated independent semiconductor foundry, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC). TSMC alone is responsible for the production of roughly 50% of the world's semiconductors. The United States, home to heavyweight companies like Intel and Texas Instruments, has 76 fabrication plants. Despite housing fewer production facilities than Taiwan or Japan, the US holds approximately 46.3 percent of the total semiconductor market share thanks to a lucrative industry that contributed $62 billion USD to its economy in 2021. China, with its clear goal of becoming self-sufficient in semiconductor manufacturing, is a key player with 70 fabrication plants. It aims to single-handedly produce up to 25% of the world's semiconductors by 2030. Leading the way in Europe is Germany with 20 plants, boasting its place through leading European semiconductor manufacturer, Infineon. Largest Chip Manufacturing Countries (based on number of factories):
Metric
Value
Rank
# of Fabrication Plants
70
#4
Metric
Value
Rank
# of Fabrication Plants
20
#5
Metric
Value
Rank
# of Fabrication Plants
4
#10
Metric
Value
Rank
# of Fabrication Plants
102
#1
Metric
Value
Rank
# of Fabrication Plants
7
#8
Metric
Value
Rank
# of Fabrication Plants
4
#9
Metric
Value
Rank
# of Fabrication Plants
15
#6
Metric
Value
Rank
# of Fabrication Plants
77
#2
Metric
Value
Rank
# of Fabrication Plants
12
#7
Metric
Value
Rank
# of Fabrication Plants
76
#3