India, May 2 -- TrendForce's latest investigation finds that China's subsidy policies and rising concerns over reciprocal tariffs are reshaping brand strategies in the panel market, indirectly influencing price trends for panel driver ICs.

In the first quarter of 2025, average driver IC prices fell by roughly 1% to 3% quarter-over-quarter. Although a slight decline is still expected in the second quarter, the pace is slowing-suggesting a possible end to the prolonged downtrend seen in recent years.

On the demand side, two key factors have helped temper the rate of decline: Brands and panel makers have adjusted their procurement schedules to gradually bring inventory levels back to healthier levels. Meanwhile, China's 2024 subsidy progra...