October 9, 2003 – The world’s two biggest contract chipmakers both posted strong year-on-year growth in 3Q revenues, with little or no improvement from 2Q figures.

TSMC reported September sales of $559 million, raising its overall 3Q revenues by 27% over a year ago and 9% from 2Q03. UMC also posted strong September sales, up 25% from a year ago to roughly $222 million. Third-quarter revenues are up 11% from 3Q02, but down just under 1% from the previous quarter.

Analysts credited the improved revenues to seasonal holiday interest in consumer electronic devices, including DVD players, digital cameras, and mobile phones.