From Silicon Waters to Global Markets: A Review of Semiconductor Manufacturing Supply Chains

The semiconductor manufacturing industry represents one of the most complex and globally integrated supply chains in modern manufacturing. This review examines the evolution of semiconductor supply chains from basic silicon processing to sophisticated global manufacturing networks serving diverse markets through a systematic literature review methodology. Industry reports were analysed from SEMI and Semiconductor Industry Association, peer-reviewed academic publications, and financial data from leading semiconductor companies covering the period ۲۰۲۰-۲۰۲۴, with particular emphasis on post-pandemic supply chain developments. The analysis employs a multi-dimensional framework examining structural characteristics, dynamic trends, strategic responses, and risk factors. Key quantitative findings include: global wafer fabrication capacity reached ۴۲ million wafers quarterly in Q۴ ۲۰۲۴; silicon wafer shipments declined ۲% to ۱۲,۱۷۴ million square inches in ۲۰۲۴, with a projected ۱۰% recovery to ۱۳,۳۲۸ million square inches in ۲۰۲۵; and the semiconductor supply chain is projected to reach ۶۰۰ billion by ۲۰۲۴, driven by artificial intelligence demand. Geographic analysis reveals that Taiwan, South Korea, and China account for ۷۵% of global capacity, with advanced manufacturing nodes under ۷ nm showing even higher concentration. The industry demonstrated operational resilience in ۲۰۲۴ despite disruptions, including ۴۰% reduction in Suez Canal traffic and geopolitical tensions. However, emerging challenges, including AI-driven demand shifts, geopolitical fragmentation, and sustainability requirements, are driving fundamental restructuring from efficiency-optimised models toward balanced approaches incorporating resilience and strategic autonomy. The review synthesises developments in manufacturing capacity, regional diversification efforts, and technological advances reshaping global semiconductor supply networks. Findings have significant implications for industry stakeholders pursuing strategic diversification, policymakers implementing regional capacity initiatives, and researchers developing semiconductor-specific supply chain frameworks.

کلیدواژه ها:

semiconductor manufacturing ، Supply chain management ، silicon wafers ، manufacturing resilience ، Semiconductor industry