- Although the global LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) TV market is limited at present, numerous countries are implementing digital TV broadcasts, and planned dates for the cessation of analog signals are fast approaching. Meanwhile, the replacement of CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) TV by flat-panel TV, such as LCD TV, is accelerating. To seize on this window of opportunity, Taiwanese IT hardware and household appliance vendors are thronging to produce and sell LCD TVs.

Taiwanese LCD TV shipment volume posted slight sequential growth in the second quarter of 2003. However, due to the arrival of more Taiwanese entrants and orders from international players, both the third quarter and fourth quarter saw shipment volume double sequentially. 2003 shipment volume totaled approximately 407,500 units, with a shipment value of over US$ 237.7 million. ASP (Average Selling Price) stood at US$ 583.

Other than a few makers with their own branded product line, a majority of Taiwanese vendors were still reliant on OEM/ODM business. Thanks to the branded vendors?aggressive involvement early on, branded business accounted for 50% of shipment share in the first and second quarters of 2003. However, with the influx of orders from international vendors from the third quarter, OEM/ODM business took the helm and outpaced branded shipments.

In the first half of 2003, Taiwanese makers primarily shipped LCD TVs smaller than 20", with 15" and 17" models as the main growth drivers. In the second half of the year, the maturing technology of large-size panels facilitated the ramp-up of mass production. Coupled with increased orders for 20" or larger LCD TVs, 26" to 30" TVs are already becoming a driving force of Taiwanese LCD TV shipment volume.

In the first quarter of 2004, Taiwanese LCD TV shipment volume is anticipated to rise, as a result of stronger market demand and orders from major players. Shipment volume is expected to reach a new high at 361,000 units.