UMC says mature-node demand is strong and wafer capacity utilization has topped
90%; the foundry will continue raising prices. CEO Wang Shi told an analyst
meeting on the 28th UMC expects blended ASP to rise about 10% YoY in 2027.
Management is accelerating AI initiatives and targets AI-related revenue to
reach 25% of sales within three years. Silicon photonics and advanced packaging
are cited as new growth drivers. Wang said both 8-inch and 12-inch businesses
have clear pricing upside, expects 2027 to be an ASP inflection point with
positive ASP momentum from Q1 next year, and said annual price negotiations are
in their late stage with management confident on the outlook.
