The latest data from the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) shows chip sales up 19.7 per cent in the past quarter.

Worldwide chip sales in the three months to 30 September rose to $61.9bn (£37.7bn), up from $51.7bn (£31.7bn) in the previous quarter. However, sales are still more than 10 per cent lower than this time last year.

"Global semiconductor sales in the third quarter were above expectations," said SIA president George Scalise.

"September sales were in line with historical patterns, reflecting increased demand from end-users as they began the build for the holiday season.

"Sales are running well ahead of the worst-case scenarios projected early in the year, and we are optimistic that total sales for 2009 will be better than our mid-year forecast."

The two strongest sectors were PCs and mobile phones, while demand for semiconductors for industrial applications showed weaker signs of recovery after plunging over the past year.

Sales increased in all regions, although growth in the Americas was slower than elsewhere. Chip sales in Europe remain the hardest hit, with sales down 24.8 per cent on last year's figures.

Scalise said that the industry is anticipating further growth this year in line with seasonal expectations.