The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) reported that global sales of semiconductors reached a record $247.7 bln in 2006, an increase of 8.9% from the $227.5 bln reported in 2005. Worldwide sales in December were $21.7 bln, an increase of 9% from December 2005 when sales were $20 bln. December 2006 sales declined by 3.6% from the immediate-prior month, when sales were $22.5 bln. Worldwide sales in the Q4 2006 were $65.2 bln, an increase of 9% over Q4 2005 sales of $59.9 bln and an increase of 1.9% over Q3 2006 sales of $64.0 bln.