Prices for 32-inch LCD TV panels may rise in January 2010

Prices for 32-inch LCD TV panels are expected to start rising from the beginning of 2010 due to strong demand from the China market and recent shortage of glass substrates, according to market sources.

Amid surging demand from China TV makers and vendors, some panel makers are planning to increase the prices for 32-inch TV panels by US$3-5 in January 2010, the sources said. LCD TV sales in China from the beginning of 2010 to Lunar Chinese New Year in mid February are expected to reach three million units, the sources noted.

Quality issues reportedly with glass substrates from Japan-based Nippon Electric Glass (NEG) are affecting production at 6G plants, which are mainly for making panels for monitors and 32-inch and smaller TVs, the sources noted.

Current prices for 32-inch TV panels range from US$195-209, according to latest pricing data from DisplaySearch.