International. According to the ABI Research report, it is estimated that more than 1.5 billion smart cards will be distributed by 2014.
Market research indicates that while many large-scale ID projects have been introduced or nearly completed by governments around the world, a new wave of adoption of these cards with second- and third-generation upgrades will help sustain the market.
The market for smart cards and IC (Integrated Circuit) security grew to record levels in 2010. Volumes continued to rise, as they had in 2009, while revenues increased again with the market recovery.
SIM Cards reached the four billion shipment mark for the first time, and bank payment cards exceeded expectations; Combined, the market grew to 5.9 million cards. The supply chain was replenished and as a result, the IC security market grew by almost 20% in 2010.
"Smart card solutions are offering governments different ways to interact with their citizens. They are not only using biometrics as a method of authenticity, but also e-government solutions for online interaction with citizens," said ABI Research Director John Devlin.
