China-based LCD TV vendors are expected to replenish TV panels beginning in the second half of March 2012 for the traditional peak sales period in early May, with the replenishment to continue until the beginning of May and to peak in March-April, according to Taiwan-based makers of TFT-LCD panels.

Taiwan-based makers will see shipments of TV panels in March and April grow on month by more than 20% and about 5% respectively, the sources pointed out.

Because LCD TV sales performance in the China market from the 2012 New Year to the Lunar New Year vacation in late January fell short of original expectations, China-based vendors' inventories of TV panels rose to 5-6 weeks then and consequently their orders released to Taiwan-based makers dropped to a bottom level in January-February, the sources indicated.

In the China market, Smart TVs, 3D TVs , inexpensive direct-type LED-backlit LCD TVs and TV models of over 40 inches are expected to catch attention during the forthcoming sales period in early May, the sources pointed out.