WASHINGTON – The Semiconductor Industry Association said worldwide sales of semiconductors reached $28.5 billion for the month of January, the industry’s highest ever total for the month.

Global sales were up 8.7% year-over-year and down 2% sequentially, reflecting normal seasonal trends.

All monthly sales numbers are compiled by the World Semiconductor Trade Statistics (WSTS) organization and represent a three-month moving average.

“After a record-setting 2014, the global semiconductor industry is off to a promising start to 2015, posting its highest ever January sales, led by impressive growth in the Americas market,” said John Neuffer, president and CEO, SIA. “Global sales have increased on a year-to-year basis for 21 consecutive months and remain strong across most regions and product categories.”

Regionally, sales in the Americas increased 16.4% year-over-year to lead all regional markets. Sales also increased in Asia Pacific (10.7%), but decreased in Europe (0.2%) and Japan (8%). Sales decreased sequentially in Asia Pacific (0.8%), Europe (2%), the Americas (3.3%), and Japan (6.4%).