* New semiconductor
technology opens up innovative applications in mobility, energy efficiency and
large-scale data processing
* Yet the growth rate
of the global microchip market is slowing down: Over the past five years, the
market grew by less than 3% annually
* Tough competition
from Asia and the US is putting European and Japanese manufacturers to the
test, even those in attractive niche markets
* Roland Berger
experts outline four possible scenarios and the need for action
* European and
Japanese semiconductor manufacturers have to defend their ground more
aggressively – New strategies and greater profitability are needed