China-based LCD TV vendors are likely to purchase a total of US$5 billion worth of TV panels from Taiwan-based makers in 2011 with large-volume orders expected to come starting June, according to industry sources in China.

Currently, about 90% of TV panels used by China's TV vendors are supplied by Chimei Innolux (CMI), LG Display, AU Optronics and Samsung Electronics. Total procurement of flat panels from Taiwan also reaches about US$5 billion, the sources added.

LED TV panels will account for over 30% of total TV panels to be purchased by China-based vendors in 2011, a significant increase from a year earlier, said the sources, noting the procurement of LCD TV panels will also include 40-inch and above sizes compared to 2010's focus on 26- to 32-inch sizes.