Number of integrated circuit (IC) wafer fab closures worldwide 2009-2019, by region
Between 2009 and 2019, 36 integrated circuit (IC) wafer fabrication plants, or fabs, were closed in Japan, while in Europe, a further 33 fabs were closed during this time period. As per the source, it was often the case that plants were closed in favor of more cost-efficient facilities, with this trend expected to continue as more IC companies opt for fabless business models.