Using the calculations of several economic indicators, this study quantitatively measures the market competition, manufacturing costs, and prices for different technologies in different facility locations, and capital cost requirements to enter today's polysilicon market. The study finds: (1) Improved gross margins and net incomes for major polysilicon manufacturers in 2014, the market has gradually shifted from aggressive pricing strategies for winning market share into a more consolidated market with improved profitability and (2) High capital cost requirements in the polysilicon industry present a significant entry barrier, which could deter new entrants and could also catalyze further consolidation in the polysilicon industry.
