CEO Kai Seikku: Rising demand and evolving supply dynamics in the wafer market
The silicon wafer market has gained momentum in early 2026, with strong demand in 300 mm and a recovery extending into the 200 mm segment. Worldwide silicon wafer shipments increased by 13% in Q1 compared to the previous year, according to SEMI Silicon Manufacturers Group. Okmetic is also seeing strengthening demand across its 150 to 200 mm product portfolio, with particularly strong activity in selected wafer segments.
From inventory optimization to supply assurance
As demand increases unevenly and geopolitical uncertainty persists, the industry focus is shifting from inventory optimization toward strengthening supply reliability.
The demand growth in the 200 mm segment is driving higher wafer capacity utilization, resulting in a tighter supply environment. In parallel, structural changes in the supply landscape are adding pressure, as some wafer manufacturers have reduced 150 mm and epitaxial wafer capacity as part of portfolio optimization, further tightening availability in selected segments. Moreover, ongoing logistics challenges in global supply chains continue to impact transit times and flexibility, contributing to longer lead times.
As demand strengthens and market conditions remain complex, a shift toward more forward-looking planning is emerging across the industry, with greater emphasis on longer planning horizons and improved visibility.
To support stable deliveries and long-term planning, Okmetic encourages customers to engage early in volume planning, forecast sharing, specification alignment, and qualification activities. This early engagement improves demand visibility, supports effective production planning, and helps ensure that evolving wafer requirements can be met efficiently as the market environment continues to evolve.
Expanding capacity and broadening supply options
Okmetic’s fab expansion in Vantaa entered volume production in early 2026, which strengthens the company’s ability to support growing demand, particularly in the 200 mm polished wafer segment. The expansion provides additional installed capacity, which is being brought into use progressively in line with customer forecasts and qualification timelines. Recognized by DNV as part of the existing site, the expansion ensures full alignment with quality and environmental certifications, enabling confident qualification.
Okmetic has also expanded its offering beyond the core 150 to 200 mm portfolio. Through partner manufacturing, the company now also provides access to 300 mm polished wafers as well as 100–300 mm epitaxial wafers, supporting applications across MEMS, RF, power, logic, memory, and mixed-signal IC markets.
Collaboration in a dynamic market
As the market continues its recovery, close collaboration between customers and suppliers is essential to ensure reliable supply and effective capacity allocation.
With over 40 years of expertise, in-house 150–200 mm silicon and silicon-on-insulator wafer manufacturing in Europe, and production partners in Asia, Okmetic is well positioned to support customers in their wafer needs in the next phase of market growth.
