VANCOUVER -- The number of mobile handset shipments is forecast to rise from 1.20 billion in 2009 to 1.43 billion in 2011, up 19.2%.

"Although the global recession led to a significant slowdown in mobile handset shipments in 2009, we expect stronger growth over the next two years especially in key Asian and African markets," said Nizar Assanie, vice president of research at IE Market Research, which issued the report.

The firm expects Nokia will retain its global market lead through 2011, with an annual share topping 35%. Samsung will be second, with a market share of 20% in 2011.