WASHINGTON, DC — The 90-day average sales of semiconductors worldwide rose 3.2% year-over-year in July and seasonal demand brings hope for further growth, the Semiconductor Industry Association said.

The semiconductor manufacturing trade group said sales were flat from June, continuing a trend of slower growth.

“Although the industry has experienced a slowing in the rate of growth in recent months amidst global economic uncertainty, we expect seasonal demand to drive sales growth in the second half of the year through the holiday season,” said Brian Toohey, president, Semiconductor Industry Association.

Global economic stagnation will continue to affect the pace of growth across semiconductor markets. However, the industry is encouraged by better-than-expected recovery efforts in Japan, SIA said.

Semiconductors are a closely watched metric as they are considered a leading indicator of future printed circuit board and electronics assembly sales.

To see the monthly and regional sales chart, click here.