Taiwan's TFT-LCD Sector Seen Surpassing Korea's in 2003
October 25, 1999 (TAIPEI) -- Taiwan's share of the global TFT-LCD market is expected to hit at least 30 percent in 2003, surpassing that of first-line suppliers such as Korea's Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. and LG Electronics Co., Ltd.
That is according to the latest report from market research company DisplayResearch.
At least two local TFT-LCD makers -- Acer affiliate AOpen Inc. and Chung Hwa Picture Tubes Ltd. -- have placed orders to buy fourth-generation manufacturing equipment. With its new equipment, AOpen will produce substrates measuring 730mm x 920mm, while Chung Hwa plans to make 680mm x 880mm substrates.
In addition, many other companies in Taiwan have announced plans to buy their own fourth-generation gear. Equipment suppliers say most of these companies will be installing new machines from mid-1999 through the first quarter of next year.
Local TFT-LCD companies also are trying to boost output. Hann Star Display Corp., which currently makes 30,000 substrates per month, will be able to make 80,000 units each month with its two new production lines. Chi Mei Optoelectronics Corp.'s monthly shipments will be raised from 30,000 units to 50,000 units, and Chung Hwa will elevate its monthly output from 25,000 units to 30,000 units.
Unipac Optoelectronics Corp. intends to set up a new 3.5-generation TFT-LCD production line. Equipment is scheduled to be installed after the second quarter of next year.
(Commercial Times, Taiwan) |
