Samsung Electro. Becomes World`s Top TFT LCD Vendor Again

Samsung Electronics topped global thin film transistor liquid crystal display (TFT LCD) sales for the fifth consecutive year.

According to U.S.-based market research firm DisplaySerach on March 17, Samsung grabbed 17% of the world`s midrange and high-end TFT LCD market last year, keeping its market-leading position. LG Philips LCD ranked the second place by securing 16.6%.

Korea topped the national sales ranking for the fourth consecutive year with a 41% share.

By dollar value, Samsung Electronics was also the No. 1 vendor at $3.086 billion (17.6%), followed by LG Philips LCD at $3.044 billion. Taiwanese AU Optronics climbed to the No.3 spot at $2.054 billion.

The global TFT LCD market was worth 69 million units last year, up 51% from 45 million units a year ago. By dollar value, it grew by 54% year-on-year from $11.4 billion to $17.5 billion.

Taiwan grabbed 34% of the market and jumped to the second place outpacing Japan, which secured 28%. It is now seen as a major rival to flat display powerhouse Korea.

˝We expect to keep the No. 1 spot this year as well,˝ said Cho Yong-deok, managing director of LCD business at Samsung Electronics.

Tae-Han Kim freewill@donga.com