One of the new forecasts for the global semiconductor industry in 2008 is that China's Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMI) might be acquired by Singapore-based Chartered Semiconductor, the world's fourth largest semiconductor OEM enterprise.

This is the second time that SMIC has been rumored to be acquired within the last year. In April 2007, it was rumored that three venture capital companies of Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co., Bain and General Atlantic might acquire 20%-25% of SMIC's stakes for US$600 million.

SMIC has not responded to the rumor. The company emphasized that it will never let go of any opportunities for forming a strategic alliance if it will increase the value for its shareholders.

In late 2007, SMIC signed a licensing agreement with IBM, which licensed IBM's 45-nanometer bulk CMOS technology to SMIC for 300mm wafer foundry service.