us chips act shakes asian ic test probe market: what's next?

2025-06-17 general

Washington, D.C., Tuesday, 17 June 2025.
the us chips act will impose a 25% tariff on specific ic test probes. this hits asia, which currently dominates 78% of the global market. north america’s reliance on imports persists due to local technical gaps. the market size was $89 million in 2024, and projections estimate it will reach $141 million by 2031. key players are innovating with mems probe tech, achieving 100,000 touches without wear in samsung’s 3d dram tests. this evolving landscape demands strategic adaptations.

tariff impact and market growth

The U.S. CHIPS Act’s 25% tariff on fine-pitch IC test probes using Chinese raw materials introduces significant challenges for Asian manufacturers [1]. The global fine-pitch IC test probe market reached $88.6 million in 2024 [3]. Projections estimate growth to $141 million by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% [1][3]. These tariffs, along with the EU’s push for localized chip production, are reshaping the competitive landscape, compelling companies to rethink their supply chains and production strategies [1].

regional dynamics and competition

Asia currently holds a dominant 78% of the global market share in fine-pitch IC test probes, driven by technological advancements and cost efficiencies [1]. However, North America’s reliance on imports remains high at 55% due to technical shortcomings of local companies [1]. European companies are increasing their domestic production, reaching 32% localization in 2024, supported by the EU Chips Act [1]. This regionalization trend creates both opportunities and risks for investors as companies adjust to new trade policies and seek to capture market share in their respective regions [1].

technology advancements and key players

Key players are focusing on technological innovation to maintain their competitive edge. Feinmetall and MPI are jointly developing MEMS probe technology, achieving 100,000 touches without wear in Samsung’s 3D DRAM testing [1]. This advancement is expected to be commercialized by 2026 [1]. Companies like FormFactor are investing in new facilities, such as a $120 million plant in Singapore, to enhance production capabilities and meet stringent technical requirements [1]. These technological advancements are crucial for companies aiming to lead in the evolving IC test probe market [1].

investment implications for key companies

The evolving market presents specific challenges and opportunities for companies like 和林微纳. On June 16, 和林微纳’s stock experienced a 2.03% increase during trading, with a turnover of 14.9987 million yuan [5]. However, there was a net outflow of 1.6588 million yuan in the main force funds [5]. Despite these fluctuations, 和林微纳 has shown significant growth this year, with a 38.87% increase in stock price and a 115.95% year-on-year increase in operating income for January-March 2025 [5]. The company’s focus on semiconductor chip test probes positions it to capitalize on the growing demand for domestic alternatives [5].

strategic adaptations and future outlook

Companies must adopt diversified strategies to navigate the changing landscape. These strategies include exploring alternative materials, expanding into Southeast Asia, and accelerating research into next-generation technologies like photon probes [1]. For instance, 中探探针 is establishing a backup production line in Vietnam and increasing cobalt mine investments in Congo (Kinshasa) to mitigate supply chain risks [1]. The industry faces challenges including policy compliance, technology iteration, and supply chain security [1]. Successfully addressing these challenges will be crucial for maintaining a competitive edge and ensuring long-term growth [1].

Bronnen

CHIPS Act Semiconductor Manufacturing