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Current IssueThe Essential Guide to Surface Finishes
We go back to basics this month with a recount of a little history, and look forward to addressing the many challenges that high density, high frequency, adhesion, SI, and corrosion concerns for harsh environments bring to the fore. We compare and contrast surface finishes by type and application, take a hard look at the many iterations of gold plating, and address palladium as a surface finish.
It's Show Time!
In this month’s issue of PCB007 Magazine we reimagine the possibilities featuring stories all about IPC APEX EXPO 2025—covering what to look forward to, and what you don’t want to miss.
Fueling the Workforce Pipeline
We take a hard look at fueling the workforce pipeline, specifically at the early introduction of manufacturing concepts and business to young people in this issue of PCB007 Magazine.
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Geopolitics Reshapes the Global PCB Landscape as Trump 2.0 Looms
February 6, 2025 | TPCAEstimated reading time: 1 minute
The global PCB industry is undergoing a period of significant transformation driven by geopolitical shifts, protectionism, and supply chain restructuring. The US-China trade war has intensified, prompting companies to diversify manufacturing and navigate a complex landscape. The US PCB market, valued at $3.98 billion in 2024, is experiencing growth driven by defense, aerospace, and data center demands. Policies like the National Defense Authorization Act and the Chips and Science Act are fueling domestic production, with companies like TTM investing in US-based manufacturing. However, US production capacity remains limited, relying heavily on imports from Taiwan and China.
In Europe, the PCB market faces challenges from high labor and energy costs, exacerbated by the Russia-Ukraine war. The EU's FOUCSING initiative aims to establish a robust, independent supply chain for high-end PCBs in space and industrial sectors. India's PCB market, while small, is attracting foreign investment due to government incentives. However, infrastructure bottlenecks, unstable power supply, and talent shortages hinder growth.
Southeast Asia is emerging as a key hub for PCB manufacturing, with Thailand poised to become the region's largest producer. Vietnam, a key electronics manufacturing center, is also attracting significant investment. Malaysia, a leader in semiconductor packaging, is attracting investments in substrate manufacturing.
The Trump 2.0 era is expected to intensify geopolitical pressure, with potential for stricter export controls and increased tariffs. This will further complicate global supply chains and impact the competitive landscape for PCB manufacturers. The future of the global PCB industry will be characterized by regional competition and cooperation, with companies navigating complex geopolitical and economic factors.
Suggested Items
Calling All Designers: The Latest Design Technology and AI
03/20/2025 | Andy Shaughnessy, Design007 MagazineAdvanced design technology and AI were in the spotlight at the annual Design Town Hall, held March 19 during IPC APEX EXPO 2025. Speakers included IPC’s Peter Tranitz, Matt Kelly, Devan Iyer, as well as a panel on the use of AI in PCB design moderated by Susan Kayesar of Siemens.
Phil Zarrow Scheduled to Host SMT Bootcamp at BEST Inc. on May 19-20
03/17/2025 | BEST Inc.BEST Inc., a leader in electronic component services, training, and products is pleased to announce it will host a two-day SMT Bootcamp course taught by industry veteran Phil Zarrow.
Zhen Ding Reported Its Operating Results for the Full Year of 2024, Expecting AI Applications to Drive Growth in 2025
03/17/2025 | Zhen Ding TechnologyZhen Ding Technology Holding Limited, a global leading PCB manufacturer, hosted an investor conference and announced its consolidated financial results for the full year of 2024.
Technica USA and CBT Introducing TiTAN Hybrid at IPC APEX EXPO 2025
03/18/2025 | Technica USAThe wait is over! Technica and CBT are proud to unveil TiTAN Hybrid, a groundbreaking innovation set to redefine the PCB industry. Designed for unmatched performance, efficiency, and adaptability, this cutting-edge laser imaging technology brings the future to you—today.
Punching Out: Fewer Than 150 PCB Shops Remain in North America
03/20/2025 | Tom Kastner -- Column: Punching Out!According to GP Ventures’ database, the number of printed circuit board manufacturing companies in North America (including Canada), is now below 150. In 2020, it was around 200, and in 2022, it was 170. These figures do not include companies that only import or assemble boards. Please note that we are counting PCB companies and not facilities, so TTM Technologies counts as one, Summit as one, AdvancedPCB as one, etc. The total number of facilities is probably higher by around 30.