Taiwan chip makers experience double-digit growth

Taiwan Semiconductor Mfg Co. Ltd (TSMC), one of the region's largest chip manufacturers, doubled its total sales revenue this year. The company's 2003 sales turnover amounted to NT$23.4 billion ($685.21 million at NT$34.15:$1), twice the amount of its 2002 sales of NT$11.7 billion ($342.61 million).

United Microelectronics Corp., one of Taiwan's semiconductor giants, reported that this year's second-quarter sales quadrupled over last year's same-period revenue.

Taiwan's industry is forecast to outpace global semiconductor growth this year. Research firm iSuppli is estimating worldwide sales to slow to 12 percent next year.