(March 2, 2006) San Jose, CA &#8212 Worldwide semiconductor sales in January 2006 hit $19.66 billion &#8212 7% percent higher than the $18.38 billion in January 2005, according to the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA). However, January 2006 sales reflected a 1.5% sequential decline from the $19.95 billion reported in December 2005. SIA notes that global semiconductor sales in January historically show a 2.2% average sequential decline following the seasonally strong fourth quarter.