The semiconductor industry is one of the most competitive and rapidly evolving markets in the world. Three giants—TSMC, Samsung, and Intel—are constantly battling for dominance. Their market share, revenue, and technological advancements dictate the future of everything from smartphones to artificial intelligence. This article takes a deep dive into the latest market share data and what it means for these semiconductor leaders.
1. In 2024, Samsung reclaimed the top position in the global semiconductor industry with a market share of 10.6%
Samsung’s ability to reclaim the top position in the semiconductor market is no small feat. This resurgence comes after periods of fluctuating revenue and market performance.
The company has invested heavily in advanced chip technology, particularly in DRAM and NAND flash memory. Samsung’s aggressive approach in expanding its fabrication plants and improving yield rates has helped it regain market dominance.
For businesses relying on Samsung’s chips, this means increased reliability and innovation in their product supply chain.
However, with geopolitical uncertainties and fluctuating consumer demand, Samsung will need to maintain momentum by staying ahead in process technology, particularly in its foundry business, where it still trails TSMC.
2. Intel held the second position in 2024, capturing a 7.9% share of the global semiconductor market
Intel’s ability to maintain a strong market position despite stiff competition is a testament to its resilience. While it has lost its edge in manufacturing, Intel remains a leader in processor technology for PCs and data centers.
The company is now focusing on reclaiming its leadership by developing new process nodes, investing in its foundry services, and strengthening its AI chip capabilities.
For enterprises and investors, Intel’s shift towards foundry services could mean new opportunities, particularly as governments push for semiconductor independence.
If Intel succeeds in developing competitive chips at advanced nodes, it could shake up the market and take share from TSMC and Samsung.
3. Nvidia closely followed Intel in 2024, securing a 7.3% share of the global semiconductor market
The rise of Nvidia highlights the growing importance of AI and GPU technologies. While Nvidia does not manufacture its own chips, it relies on TSMC for fabrication. Its success has been driven by the explosion of demand for AI chips and graphics processors used in gaming, data centers, and AI training.
For companies in the semiconductor supply chain, Nvidia’s market growth signals a shift toward specialized chips optimized for AI workloads. This means that traditional CPU dominance may decrease, with more companies designing their own custom AI accelerators.
4. In Q3 2024, TSMC dominated the global semiconductor foundry market with a 64.9% share
TSMC’s dominance in the foundry market is undisputed. As the world’s largest contract chip manufacturer, it produces chips for companies like Apple, Nvidia, AMD, and even Intel. TSMC’s ability to maintain high market share stems from its leadership in cutting-edge process technology.
This dominance means that any disruptions in TSMC’s operations could have ripple effects across the industry. Businesses that rely on TSMC should consider diversifying their suppliers, especially given geopolitical tensions surrounding Taiwan.
5. Samsung’s share in the global semiconductor foundry market was 9.3% in Q3 2024
Samsung remains TSMC’s biggest competitor in the foundry business but still has a long way to go. Samsung’s foundry division has struggled with yield issues at advanced nodes, which has prevented it from capturing more market share.
Companies looking for alternatives to TSMC should weigh the risks and benefits of switching to Samsung Foundry. While Samsung offers competitive pricing and aggressive expansion plans, its track record with cutting-edge nodes is still behind TSMC.
6. In Q2 2024, TSMC’s market share in the global wafer foundry market was 62%
The wafer foundry business is essential for global semiconductor supply chains. TSMC’s continued leadership in this sector is due to its cutting-edge process nodes and strong customer relationships.
Businesses relying on advanced chip manufacturing should closely monitor TSMC’s production capacity. If demand for AI chips, 5G devices, and high-performance computing continues to surge, supply constraints could impact pricing and availability.
7. Samsung held a 13% market share in the global wafer foundry market during Q2 2024
Samsung’s foundry business continues to improve, but its market share remains much lower than TSMC’s. While the company has made progress in developing 3nm and 4nm chips, its yield rates have been inconsistent.
For businesses evaluating foundry partners, Samsung’s competitiveness will largely depend on its ability to improve yield rates and attract more customers beyond in-house products like Exynos processors.
8. SMIC maintained a 6% market share in the global wafer foundry market in Q2 2024
China’s largest foundry, SMIC, is growing despite U.S. sanctions. While it still lags behind in advanced process nodes, its focus on mature nodes has given it a stable market share.
Companies exploring foundry diversification may find SMIC a viable option for non-cutting-edge chips. However, geopolitical risks and potential restrictions should be carefully considered.
9. In Q3 2024, TSMC’s market share increased to 64%, up 2% from the previous quarter
TSMC’s continued market share growth shows its ability to outperform competitors despite a highly competitive industry. Its investments in 3nm and future 2nm technology ensure that it remains the preferred choice for top semiconductor companies.
Businesses should plan their semiconductor sourcing strategies carefully, as TSMC’s advanced nodes are expected to be in high demand.
10. Samsung’s market share in the global wafer foundry market was 12% in Q3 2024
Samsung’s slight market share decline in Q3 suggests that it is still struggling to compete with TSMC at the highest levels.
Businesses that depend on advanced semiconductor manufacturing should monitor Samsung’s progress in refining its manufacturing processes.
11. In 2023, TSMC’s revenue reached $69.3 billion, surpassing Intel’s $54.23 billion and Samsung’s $50.99 billion
TSMC’s revenue growth reflects its strong leadership in the foundry market. For businesses, this means continued investments in advanced process technology.
The semiconductor market is cyclical, so while TSMC is currently ahead, companies must stay agile and monitor industry trends.
12. TSMC’s market share is projected to climb from 59% in 2023 to 64% in 2024 and 66% in 2025
TSMC’s projected market growth highlights the increasing reliance on its manufacturing capabilities.
As competition intensifies, semiconductor buyers should plan long-term partnerships with foundry leaders to secure production capacity.
13. In Q3 2024, the total revenue of the world’s top ten wafer foundries increased by 9.1% quarter-over-quarter, reaching $34.9 billion
The semiconductor industry is experiencing strong growth despite global economic uncertainties. A 9.1% increase in total revenue for the top ten foundries shows that demand for chips is still rising. This is being driven by AI, automotive, and high-performance computing.
For businesses that depend on semiconductors, this means rising costs and possible supply constraints. Companies should work closely with their suppliers to secure production capacity in advance. Long-term agreements and partnerships with foundries can help prevent disruptions.
14. TSMC’s market share in the global foundry market was 57.9% in Q3 2023, while Samsung’s was 12.4%
Comparing Q3 2023 with Q3 2024, TSMC has strengthened its grip on the foundry market, while Samsung’s share has slightly declined. TSMC’s continued success is due to its technological advancements and high yield rates.
For companies looking for foundry services, this statistic confirms that TSMC remains the safest choice for cutting-edge chips. However, diversifying supply chains by working with multiple foundries, including Samsung and Intel’s new foundry services, can reduce risk.
15. In Q1 2024, TSMC’s market share was 62%, a one-percentage-point improvement from Q1 2023
TSMC’s slight increase in market share suggests that it continues to win more business from chip designers. As the leader in 5nm and 3nm manufacturing, TSMC remains the go-to foundry for advanced chips.
For semiconductor buyers, this reinforces the need to secure production slots at TSMC as early as possible. The demand for cutting-edge chips will only grow, especially as 2nm technology becomes available in 2025.
16. Samsung’s market share in the global foundry market was 13% in Q1 2024, two percentage points higher than in Q1 2023
Samsung made slight gains in early 2024, but its overall market share remains far behind TSMC. The company’s focus on 3nm technology and partnerships with major customers like Qualcomm and Tesla may help it grow further.
Businesses considering Samsung Foundry should closely monitor its progress in improving yield rates. If Samsung successfully scales its advanced nodes, it could become a stronger alternative to TSMC.
17. In 2023, TSMC’s market share improved by 1.3% compared to 2022
Even a small gain in market share is significant in the semiconductor industry. TSMC’s 1.3% increase reflects its ability to stay ahead in advanced chip manufacturing.
Companies relying on semiconductors should recognize that TSMC will likely remain dominant in the near future. Developing long-term supplier relationships and investing in supply chain resilience will be critical for stability.
18. In Q3 2024, TSMC’s revenue grew by 13% quarter-over-quarter to $23.53 billion
A 13% revenue increase for TSMC shows that demand for its chips is accelerating. AI, data centers, and 5G technologies are fueling this growth.
For tech companies and chip buyers, this means prices could increase as demand outpaces supply. Planning ahead and securing chip orders early will be essential.
19. Samsung’s revenue in the semiconductor foundry market decreased by 12.4% quarter-over-quarter in Q3 2024
While TSMC grew, Samsung faced a decline in revenue. This drop may be due to lower yield rates on its 3nm process or customer hesitation in switching from TSMC.
For companies looking at Samsung as a foundry option, this serves as a reminder to carefully evaluate performance metrics before making long-term commitments.
20. In Q3 2024, TSMC’s market share in the global foundry market was 64.9%, while Samsung’s was 9.1%
TSMC continues to expand its lead, while Samsung struggles to hold onto its position. This gap means that TSMC remains the preferred partner for companies requiring high-end semiconductor manufacturing.
If Samsung wants to compete, it will need to improve its technology and prove that it can deliver the same level of reliability and performance as TSMC.
21. In 2024, TSMC’s market share in the global foundry market is projected to be 64%
Projections show that TSMC is likely to maintain its dominance for the rest of 2024. The company is heavily investing in new fabs and process improvements.
For businesses, this means continued reliance on TSMC for leading-edge chips. However, companies should also prepare for potential disruptions by diversifying supply sources.
22. In 2025, TSMC’s market share in the global foundry market is projected to reach 66%
TSMC’s market share is expected to grow even further in 2025, thanks to its leadership in 2nm and 3nm technology. This suggests that it will continue to attract top-tier customers.
Companies looking to secure long-term chip supply should establish strong relationships with TSMC now before competition for production slots intensifies.
23. In Q2 2024, the global wafer foundry market saw a revenue increase of approximately 9% quarter-over-quarter and 23% year-over-year
This rapid revenue growth signals strong demand for semiconductors. AI, cloud computing, and automotive chips are driving much of this expansion.
Businesses in the semiconductor space should anticipate continued growth and plan accordingly. Investing in R&D and securing production capacity now will be critical.
24. In Q3 2024, TSMC’s market share increased by 2% from the previous quarter
TSMC’s ability to gain an additional 2% of the market in just one quarter highlights its strength.
Companies should watch for how TSMC’s next-generation technologies will shape the industry. Early adoption of advanced chips could provide a competitive edge.
25. In Q3 2024, Samsung’s market share in the global wafer foundry market was 12%
Despite its efforts, Samsung’s market share remains relatively flat.
Businesses evaluating foundry services should carefully assess Samsung’s progress before committing to large production runs.
26. In Q3 2024, TSMC’s market share in the global foundry market was 64.9%
With nearly two-thirds of the foundry market, TSMC continues to hold a strong position.
For semiconductor buyers, this means that TSMC will remain the top choice, but competition for production capacity will be fierce.
27. In Q3 2024, Samsung’s market share in the global foundry market was 9.3%
Samsung’s single-digit market share highlights the challenges it faces in catching up to TSMC.
Companies should evaluate whether Samsung can offer a competitive alternative before making foundry commitments.
28. In Q2 2024, TSMC’s market share in the global wafer foundry market was 62%
TSMC continues to command the wafer foundry market.
Businesses should anticipate increasing lead times for advanced chips as demand rises.
29. In Q2 2024, Samsung’s market share in the global wafer foundry market was 13%
Samsung remains a strong player but has not been able to close the gap with TSMC.
For companies seeking alternative foundry partners, Samsung may be an option but should be considered carefully.
30. The semiconductor industry is more competitive than ever
TSMC is the dominant force in semiconductor manufacturing, with Samsung and Intel struggling to keep up.
For businesses, this means strategic planning is essential. Securing reliable chip supply, staying updated on technology trends, and diversifying production sources will be key to staying ahead in an increasingly semiconductor-driven world.
wrapping it up
With TSMC maintaining its dominance, Samsung striving to close the gap, and Intel attempting a comeback, the semiconductor industry remains highly competitive. However, market share alone does not determine the future leader.
The battle will be won by the company that leads in advanced process nodes, secures long-term customer relationships, and successfully navigates global supply chain challenges.
