Global semiconductor revenues are expected to increase 16-18 percent this year after dipping 9.0 percent in 2009, industry research firm IDC said Friday as demand picks up.

Semiconductor revenues fell to 225.1 billion dollars last year due to the global economic downturn, but a recovery in demand in the second half of the year cushioned the decline, IDC said in a statement.

"Overall, the semiconductor market in 2009 started with doom and gloom, but ended up with optimism for a strong recovery in 2010," said Mali Venkatesan, an IDC research manager.

"So far, 2010 is already proving to be very strong. Semiconductor inventory checks indicate strong demand in the first half of 2010 with order rates expected to normalise in the second half of the year," Venkatesan added.

"Assuming there are no macroeconomic shocks to the global economy, IDC expects 2010 to be a banner year, with 16-18 percent year-over-year semiconductor revenue growth."

The Asia Pacific region remained the leading market for semiconductors globally last year, accounting for 49.6 percent of consumption, IDC said.