LCD monitor panel prices are expected to start rising in March 2011, and the prices for LCD TV panels are expected to increase in April-May, while prices for notebook panels are expected to remain flat.

IT (monitor and notebook) panel prices increased slightly in November 2010, and current prices have maintained above cash cost, and TV panel prices have also dropped close to cash cost. Currently, most large-size panel prices are above cash cost, but are dangerously close.

Despite that panel makers are actively trying to raise panel prices, their efforts have not shown any effect on improving panel prices. However, the overall panel industry has recently changed, with labor shortages in January causing lower-than-expected production and fewer work days in February, inventory at vendors has dropped to a lower level and panel makers are seeing replenishment orders from vendors and system makers in March.

Panel makers indicated that monitor panel prices are rising strongly, and prices for 18.5- and 22-inch widescreen are expected to increase by US$1 in March. For TV panels, stronger demand is expected to show up later and help to boost order volumes due to the upcoming Labor Day holidays in May in China, as well as the launch of new models.

For notebook panels, with most of consumers' focus on the newly launched iPad 2, the 10-inch and larger notebook market remains silent and demand is expected to remain flat.