Figures from the Semiconductor Equipment and Material International (SEMI) said that worldwide sales of manufacturing equipment rose by 14 per cent in March, worldwide. According to the trade association, the equipment market posted a book-to-bill ration of 1.30, meaning $130 of orders were received for every $100 of products shipped. SEMI said that first quarter orders for the equipment used to make silicon chips were stronger than expected. Growth is also continuing in Korea and Taiwan, according to Stanley Myers, president of the organisation. ®