Microelectronics

Okmetic: Rising demand and changing supply dynamics on the wafer market

June 6, 2026. The market for silicon wafers has gained momentum in early 2026, with strong demand in the 300 mm segment and a recovery extending to the 200 mm segment. According to the SEMI Silicon Manufacturers Group, global silicon wafer shipments increased by 13% year-on-year in the first quarter. Okmetic is also seeing rising demand across its entire 150 to 200 mm product portfolio, with particularly strong activity in selected wafer segments.

Symbolic image of a wafer. Photo: pixabay

From inventory optimization to supply security

As demand increases unevenly and geopolitical uncertainty continues, the industry’s focus is shifting from inventory optimization to strengthening supply security.

The growth in demand in the 200 mm segment is leading to higher wafer capacity utilization, resulting in a tighter supply environment. At the same time, structural changes in the supply landscape are increasing the pressure, as some wafer manufacturers have reduced their capacities for 150 mm and epitaxial wafers as part of portfolio optimization, further restricting availability in selected segments. In addition, ongoing logistical challenges in global supply chains continue to impact transit times and flexibility, contributing to longer lead times.

As demand increases and market conditions remain complex, a shift towards more forward-looking planning is emerging across the industry, with an increased focus on longer planning horizons and improved visibility.

To support stable deliveries and long-term planning, Okmetic recommends that customers engage early in volume planning, forecast sharing, specification alignment and qualification activities. This early involvement improves demand visibility, supports effective production planning and helps ensure that changing wafer requirements can be met efficiently as the market environment evolves.

Capacity expansion and broadening of supply options

Okmetic’s fab expansion in Vantaa went into volume production in early 2026, strengthening the company’s ability to meet growing demand, particularly in the 200mm polished wafer segment. The expansion provides additional installed capacity, which will be commissioned gradually according to customer forecasts and qualification schedules. The expansion has been recognized by DNV as part of the existing site and ensures full compliance with quality and environmental certifications, enabling reliable qualification.

Okmetic has also expanded its offering beyond the core 150 to 200 mm portfolio. Through partner manufacturing, the company now offers access to 300mm polished wafers as well as 100-300mm epitaxial wafers, supporting applications in MEMS, RF, power electronics, logic, memory and mixed-signal ICs.

Collaboration in a dynamic market

As the market continues to recover, close collaboration between customers and suppliers is essential to ensure reliable supply and effective capacity allocation.

With over 40 years of experience, in-house manufacturing of 150-200mm silicon and Si insulator wafers in Europe and production partners in Asia, Okmetic is well positioned to support customers with their wafer needs in the next phase of market growth.

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