Global Notebook Shipments to Rise 2.2% in 2025 as Southeast Asia Boosts Production Capacity

TrendForce reported that global notebook shipments are projected to grow by 2.2% year-over-year in 2025, reaching over 180 million units. This growth is driven by expanded production capacity in Southeast Asia, supported by U.S. tariff exemptions for notebooks imported from the region. The shift in supply chains, initiated in response to U.S. tariff policies during the Trump administration, has led to increased manufacturing capabilities in Southeast Asia, contributing to market recovery despite geopolitical tensions and tariff uncertainties.

In the second quarter of 2025, notebook shipments rose 9.5% quarter-over-quarter, fueled by zero-tariff exports from Southeast Asia to the U.S., China’s subsidy-driven replacement cycle, and Japan’s GIGA School 2.0 education initiative. The third quarter is expected to see continued growth of 7.5% quarter-over-quarter, as notebooks remain exempt from U.S. semiconductor tariffs and brands, OS vendors, and CPU suppliers provide channel subsidies.

Southeast Asia has become a key production hub outside China. Vietnam, benefiting from proximity to China, efficient logistics, stable policies, and a young workforce, has attracted major ODMs like Compal, Wistron, LCFC, and Huaqin. Dell and Apple’s investments have further strengthened Vietnam’s supply chain, with the country’s share of global notebook...