Semiconductors are a major economic and strategic factor and all industries now depend on this technology. The study by the Office attempted to answer the basic questions on the expected technical developments, the distribution of skills around the world, and the policies foreseeable for France and the Community. Considerable space was devoted to the European JESSI programme and to Europe’s chances in view of Japanese supremacy. Developments - both technical and economic - in this sector have been so rapid that the Office has been asked to prepare an update of this report.