
Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Insights, Size, and Forecast By End Use (Residential, Commercial, Industrial), By Material Type (Zinc Oxide, Bismuth Oxide, Other Metal Oxides), By Application (Power Transmission Systems, Renewable Energy Systems, Consumer Electronics, Industrial Equipment), By Voltage Rating (Low Voltage, Medium Voltage, High Voltage), By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa), Key Companies, Competitive Analysis, Trends, and Projections for 2026-2035
Key Market Insights
Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market is projected to grow from USD 1.85 Billion in 2025 to USD 3.42 Billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 6.7% from 2026 through 2035. This growth is underpinned by the critical role MOVs play in protecting electronic equipment from transient overvoltages, ensuring reliability and extending product lifecycles across diverse applications. A metal oxide varistor is a voltage dependent, nonlinear device that has an electrical behavior similar to back to back Zener diodes. It is a semiconductor device that can handle high transient current and absorb large amounts of energy. Key market drivers include the accelerating digitalization across industries, leading to a proliferation of sensitive electronic devices that require robust surge protection. The increasing frequency and intensity of lightning strikes and power grid instabilities due to climate change further necessitate enhanced surge protection solutions. Furthermore, the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure, such as solar and wind farms, which are highly susceptible to voltage fluctuations, is fueling demand for high performance MOVs. Regulatory mandates and industry standards promoting electrical safety and equipment longevity also contribute significantly to market expansion. The market is segmented by Application, End Use, Voltage Rating, and Material Type, with Zinc Oxide dominating the material segment due to its superior non linearity and energy absorption capabilities.
Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Value (USD Billion) Analysis, 2025-2035

2025 - 2035
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Important trends shaping the market include the miniaturization of electronic components, driving demand for smaller form factor MOVs without compromising performance. The development of advanced MOV materials with improved surge handling capabilities and longer operational lifespans is another key trend. The integration of smart features into surge arresters, enabling predictive maintenance and real time monitoring, is also gaining traction. However, the market faces restraints such as the commoditization of basic MOV products, leading to price pressures and intense competition. The technical complexity involved in designing MOVs for extremely high voltage applications and harsh environments also presents a challenge. Despite these hurdles, significant opportunities lie in the burgeoning electric vehicle EV market, where MOVs are crucial for protecting sensitive electronics and charging infrastructure. The expansion of 5G networks, requiring extensive surge protection for base stations and associated equipment, also presents a lucrative growth avenue. Moreover, the increasing adoption of industrial IoT and automation across manufacturing sectors necessitates robust surge protection for connected devices and control systems.
Asia Pacific stands as the dominant region in the global MOV for surge arresters market, primarily driven by rapid industrialization, extensive infrastructure development, and a burgeoning electronics manufacturing base, particularly in countries like China, India, and Japan. The region's substantial investments in smart grid initiatives and renewable energy projects further solidify its market leadership. Asia Pacific is also the fastest growing region, propelled by its expanding consumer electronics market, increasing electrification rates in developing economies, and the growing demand for data centers and telecommunication infrastructure. Key players in this competitive landscape include Vishay Intertechnology, Panasonic, Eaton, STMicroelectronics, Fairchild Semiconductor, Amphenol, Bourns, Infineon Technologies, NXP Semiconductors, and TE Connectivity. These companies are employing strategies such as product innovation, strategic partnerships, and mergers and acquisitions to expand their market share and enhance their technological capabilities. Focus on developing application specific MOVs, improving manufacturing efficiencies, and strengthening distribution networks are also critical elements of their competitive strategies.
Quick Stats
Market Size (2025):
USD 1.85 BillionProjected Market Size (2035):
USD 3.42 BillionLeading Segment:
Zinc Oxide (88.5% Share)Dominant Region (2025):
Asia Pacific (45.2% Share)CAGR (2026-2035):
6.7%
What is Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters?
Metal Oxide Varistors MOVs are semiconductor devices used in surge arresters to protect electrical equipment from overvoltage transients. They possess a highly non linear current voltage characteristic, meaning their resistance dramatically drops when voltage exceeds a certain threshold. This allows them to clamp transient overvoltages by diverting excess current to ground, thereby limiting the voltage across protected equipment. MOVs recover their high resistance state once the surge passes. Their compact size, rapid response, and high energy absorption capability make them essential components in power systems and electronic devices for reliable overvoltage protection.
What are the Trends in Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market
Smart Grid Integration for Enhanced MOV Reliability
Miniaturization and Performance Boost in High Voltage MOVs
Sustainable Materials Driving Next Gen Varistor Innovation
AI Powered Predictive Maintenance for Varistor Networks
Smart Grid Integration for Enhanced MOV Reliability
Smart grid demands better surge protection. Enhanced MOV reliability comes from improved material science and design, leading to longer lasting, more efficient varistors. These advanced MOVs integrate seamlessly, offering predictive maintenance capabilities and real time performance monitoring, crucial for grid stability and asset protection in evolving electrical networks globally.
Miniaturization and Performance Boost in High Voltage MOVs
Miniaturization and performance boost in high voltage MOVs reflects a trend where smaller varistors achieve higher energy absorption and improved surge current handling. This allows for more compact and efficient surge arrester designs. Advancements in material science and manufacturing processes enable these enhanced capabilities within reduced form factors, meeting demand for space constrained applications.
Sustainable Materials Driving Next Gen Varistor Innovation
Next generation varistors increasingly incorporate sustainable materials. This trend moves away from traditional, less eco friendly components, prioritizing materials with reduced environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. Manufacturers are innovating to develop surge arresters that are not only effective but also align with global sustainability goals, driving demand for greener metal oxide varistor solutions in the market.
AI Powered Predictive Maintenance for Varistor Networks
AI analyzes real time varistor network data to predict failures before they occur. This enables proactive maintenance scheduling, minimizing downtime and extending the lifespan of surge arrester systems. It optimizes operational efficiency and reduces unexpected outages, significantly improving reliability of critical infrastructure protecting against surges.
What are the Key Drivers Shaping the Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market
Increasing Demand for Renewable Energy Infrastructure
Growing Investment in Smart Grid Modernization and Expansion
Rising Adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Charging Infrastructure
Stringent Regulatory Standards for Electrical Safety and Reliability
Increasing Demand for Renewable Energy Infrastructure
The escalating global shift towards clean energy sources like solar and wind power necessitates robust grid infrastructure. This expansion, particularly in transmission and distribution networks, drives demand for MOV based surge arresters to protect vital equipment from voltage spikes, ensuring reliable and continuous operation of renewable energy assets.
Growing Investment in Smart Grid Modernization and Expansion
Utilities worldwide are significantly increasing their spending on upgrading and expanding smart grids. This includes modernizing infrastructure, integrating renewables, and enhancing grid reliability. Such investments directly fuel the demand for Metal Oxide Varistors as essential components for surge protection, safeguarding the growing smart grid infrastructure from voltage transients and ensuring operational continuity.
Rising Adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Charging Infrastructure
Growing EV adoption fuels demand for surge arresters in charging stations and grid infrastructure. These varistors protect sensitive EV electronics and power networks from voltage spikes during charging, ensuring reliable operation. The expanding EV ecosystem intrinsically links to the increasing need for robust surge protection solutions globally.
Stringent Regulatory Standards for Electrical Safety and Reliability
Strict government regulations for electrical systems necessitate high performance surge protection. Manufacturers must meet these stringent standards to ensure device safety and reliability. This drives demand for Metal Oxide Varistors as essential components in surge arresters, ensuring compliance and preventing system failures.
Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Restraints
Supply Chain Disruptions and Raw Material Volatility
Unpredictable disruptions in the global supply chain, including geopolitical events, trade disputes, and natural disasters, pose a significant challenge. This volatility extends to raw material availability and pricing, impacting the consistent production of metal oxide varistors. Fluctuating costs and shortages of key components like zinc oxide, bismuth oxide, and various dopants make long term planning and stable pricing difficult for manufacturers in this market.
Intensified Competition from Alternative Surge Protection Technologies
The surge protection market is experiencing a significant shift as new, non-MOV technologies emerge and gain traction. These alternatives, often boasting improved performance, smaller footprints, or cost advantages, directly challenge the established dominance of metal oxide varistors. This increased rivalry from diverse protection solutions forces MOV manufacturers to innovate faster and compete more aggressively on price and features to maintain their market share within the broader surge arrester landscape.
Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Opportunities
Renewable Energy and Smart Grid Expansion Driving Demand for Advanced MOVs
Renewable energy projects such as solar and wind farms necessitate robust surge protection for their sensitive electronic components and crucial grid interconnections. Concurrently, the expansion of smart grids, with intricate digital infrastructure and distributed energy sources, requires sophisticated overvoltage protection. This dual trend significantly boosts demand for advanced Metal Oxide Varistors MOVs. These MOVs must offer enhanced performance, reliability, and compact designs to safeguard critical equipment in an increasingly complex and interconnected power landscape, ensuring system stability and longevity across all applications.
Next-Generation MOVs for Enhanced Reliability in Extreme Environment Surge Arresters
Developing advanced metal oxide varistors presents a significant opportunity to enhance reliability in surge arresters operating in extreme environments. Next-generation MOVs, engineered for superior performance against harsh conditions like high temperatures, humidity, or corrosive atmospheres, meet critical infrastructure demands. This innovation addresses the growing global need for robust grid stability in challenging industrial and remote locations. Manufacturers can capitalize on this by providing more durable, long lasting solutions that minimize downtime and maintenance, creating a valuable competitive advantage and market share in demanding applications worldwide.
Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Segmentation Analysis
Key Market Segments
By Application
- •Power Transmission Systems
- •Renewable Energy Systems
- •Consumer Electronics
- •Industrial Equipment
By End Use
- •Residential
- •Commercial
- •Industrial
By Voltage Rating
- •Low Voltage
- •Medium Voltage
- •High Voltage
By Material Type
- •Zinc Oxide
- •Bismuth Oxide
- •Other Metal Oxides
Segment Share By Application
Share, By Application, 2025 (%)
- Power Transmission Systems
- Renewable Energy Systems
- Consumer Electronics
- Industrial Equipment

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Why is Zinc Oxide dominating the Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market?
Zinc Oxide leads the market with a substantial share due to its superior non linearity, high energy absorption capabilities, and excellent stability. Its material properties allow for highly effective overvoltage protection, making it the preferred choice across various applications from power systems to consumer electronics. This widespread adoption is further driven by its consistent performance and cost effectiveness in manufacturing reliable surge arresters.
Which application segment demonstrates the highest demand for MOV surge arresters?
The Power Transmission Systems segment exhibits the highest demand for MOV surge arresters. This is primarily attributed to the critical need to protect extensive and vulnerable grid infrastructure from lightning strikes and switching overvoltages. MOVs are essential for ensuring grid stability, preventing equipment damage in substations and transmission lines, and maintaining uninterrupted power supply across vast networks.
How do different voltage ratings influence the demand for MOV surge arresters?
The demand for MOV surge arresters is significantly influenced by their voltage rating. High Voltage MOV surge arresters command a substantial share due to their indispensable role in protecting critical infrastructure in power generation, transmission, and distribution. Medium and Low Voltage MOVs also see considerable demand in industrial equipment and consumer electronics, driven by the increasing need to safeguard sensitive electronics from transient overvoltages across diverse power levels.
What Regulatory and Policy Factors Shape the Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market
The global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV market is profoundly influenced by stringent safety and performance regulations. International Electrotechnical Commission IEC 61643 series standards and Underwriters Laboratories UL certifications dictate critical product requirements for surge protective devices ensuring grid stability and infrastructure protection. Environmental compliance directives like Restriction of Hazardous Substances RoHS and Registration Evaluation Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals REACH are increasingly vital, impacting material composition and manufacturing processes for MOVs. Government policies promoting renewable energy integration, smart grid initiatives, and electrical infrastructure upgrades worldwide directly stimulate demand and impose evolving technical specifications. Regional trade agreements and import export tariffs further shape market dynamics, requiring manufacturers to navigate complex regulatory landscapes globally.
What New Technologies are Shaping Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market?
Innovations in Metal Oxide Varistors MOVs for surge arresters are transforming market capabilities. Advanced material compositions, notably enhanced zinc oxide ceramics, are driving superior energy absorption capacity and extended operational lifespans. This leads to more robust and reliable surge protection across diverse applications. Emerging technologies focus on miniaturization, enabling compact and efficient arresters vital for smart grid integration and renewable energy infrastructure. Increased demand for higher voltage and higher energy handling capabilities is pushing research into novel fabrication techniques and modular designs. These advancements promise improved grid resilience, lower maintenance costs, and wider adoption in critical power systems.
Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Regional Analysis
Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market
Trends, by Region

Asia-Pacific Market
Revenue Share, 2025
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North America is a significant market for MOV-based surge arresters, driven by robust infrastructure development and stringent grid modernization initiatives. The region benefits from established electrical grids requiring continuous maintenance and upgrades, alongside growing investments in renewable energy infrastructure. The demand is further fueled by the rising adoption of advanced smart grid technologies and the increasing need for reliable surge protection in critical infrastructure like data centers and telecommunications. Key players focus on high-performance, compact varistors meeting NERC CIP requirements. Technological advancements in voltage ratings and energy absorption capabilities are key growth drivers, with a particular focus on utility and industrial applications.
Europe is a mature yet significant market for MOV-based surge arresters. Growth is driven by grid modernization initiatives, particularly in Eastern Europe, and the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure across the continent. Stringent safety regulations and increasing demand for robust power protection solutions in industrial and commercial sectors further fuel market expansion. Germany, France, and the Kingdom have established manufacturing bases and a strong focus on high-reliability components. The region also benefits from a high level of technological adoption and a growing emphasis on smart grid technologies.
Asia Pacific dominates the global metal oxide varistors (MOV) for surge arresters market with a 45.2% share, driven by rapid industrialization and urbanization. This region is also the fastest growing, exhibiting a robust 9.2% CAGR. The expansion is fueled by significant investments in power infrastructure, renewable energy projects, and the increasing adoption of smart grid technologies across countries like China, India, and Southeast Asia. The robust electronics manufacturing sector further contributes to the high demand for MOV-based surge protection solutions in this dynamic region.
Latin America's MOV market for surge arresters is experiencing moderate growth, driven by infrastructure development and renewable energy projects. Brazil and Mexico lead in adoption due to robust industrial and utility sectors. Urbanization and increased power grid modernization initiatives across the region are key demand drivers. Local manufacturing is limited, making imports crucial. Future growth is tied to government investments in smart grid technologies and the expansion of distributed generation, though economic volatility in some countries poses challenges. The market remains competitive with international players dominating.
The MEA MOV for Surge Arresters market, though smaller, demonstrates consistent growth driven by industrialization and renewable energy expansion. Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries lead demand due to infrastructure projects and grid modernization. South Africa and Nigeria also present significant opportunities, propelled by their expanding industrial bases and increasing electricity demand. However, political instability in certain regions and fluctuating raw material prices pose challenges. The market is highly import-dependent, with local manufacturing nascent but slowly emerging, focusing on customization for extreme climatic conditions prevalent in the region.
Top Countries Overview
The US market for metal oxide varistors MOV in surge arresters is expanding, driven by infrastructure development and renewable energy projects. Demand for high performance, reliable overvoltage protection is increasing across utilities, industrial applications, and commercial sectors.
China dominates the global metal oxide varistors MOV market for surge arresters. Chinese manufacturers significantly contribute to the supply chain, meeting domestic and international demand. Technological advancements and strategic investments are bolstering their market presence and expanding product applications.
India's global MOV market for surge arresters is expanding with increasing industrialization and renewable energy projects. Demand rises for reliable overvoltage protection in power grids and electronics. Domestic manufacturing and imports cater to infrastructure development and consumer electronics needs, driving market growth significantly.
Impact of Geopolitical and Macroeconomic Factors
Geopolitical tensions influence raw material supply chains for metal oxide varistors, especially those relying on rare earth elements or specific mineral resources. Trade policies and tariffs from major economies directly impact manufacturing costs and market access for MOV producers, potentially shifting production hubs. Geopolitical stability in key manufacturing regions affects output and global distribution networks for surge arresters.
Macroeconomic trends such as global industrial growth and infrastructure development drive demand for surge arresters and their MOV components. Inflationary pressures on energy and labor costs affect production profitability and pricing strategies. Exchange rate fluctuations impact import export costs for raw materials and finished products, influencing competitive landscapes and profit margins for manufacturers.
Recent Developments
- March 2025
Vishay Intertechnology launched a new series of high-power disc varistors designed for enhanced surge protection in industrial and renewable energy applications. These new MOV devices offer superior clamping voltage and energy absorption capabilities compared to previous generations, improving the robustness of surge arresters.
- January 2025
Infineon Technologies announced a strategic partnership with Eaton to co-develop advanced MOV-based surge protection solutions for data centers and smart grid infrastructure. This collaboration aims to integrate Infineon's semiconductor expertise with Eaton's power management systems, leading to more efficient and reliable surge arresters.
- November 2024
Panasonic introduced a new line of compact and high-reliability chip varistors specifically targeting automotive electronics and IoT devices, where space is at a premium. These smaller form factor MOVs are crucial for miniaturizing surge arresters in increasingly complex and integrated electronic systems.
- September 2024
STMicroelectronics unveiled a new manufacturing process for its metal oxide varistors, focusing on improving long-term stability and reducing power consumption. This initiative is geared towards extending the lifespan and enhancing the energy efficiency of surge arresters in demanding environments.
- July 2024
Bourns completed the acquisition of a specialized ceramic materials company, enabling greater vertical integration in its MOV production. This strategic move aims to enhance Bourns' control over the supply chain and accelerate the development of next-generation varistor technologies for surge arresters.
Key Players Analysis
Key players in the global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters market include Vishay Intertechnology, Panasonic, and Eaton, offering critical overvoltage protection solutions. These companies utilize advanced ceramic and semiconductor technologies to develop high performance MOV devices with varying voltage and energy absorption capabilities. Strategic initiatives involve expanding product portfolios to meet increasing demand for robust surge protection in industrial, automotive, and consumer electronics sectors. Market growth is driven by the proliferation of sensitive electronic equipment and the need for enhanced reliability against lightning strikes and power surges. Fairchild Semiconductor, Amphenol, and TE Connectivity also contribute significantly, focusing on specialized applications and connectivity solutions integrated with MOV technology.
List of Key Companies:
- Vishay Intertechnology
- Panasonic
- Eaton
- STMicroelectronics
- Fairchild Semiconductor
- Amphenol
- Bourns
- Infineon Technologies
- NXP Semiconductors
- TE Connectivity
- Rockwell Automation
- AVX Corporation
- Schneider Electric
- Littelfuse
- Toshiba
- Mouser Electronics
Report Scope and Segmentation
| Report Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2025) | USD 1.85 Billion |
| Forecast Value (2035) | USD 3.42 Billion |
| CAGR (2026-2035) | 6.7% |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Segments Covered |
|
| Regional Analysis |
|
Table of Contents:
List of Figures
List of Tables
Table 1: Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 2: Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 3: Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Voltage Rating, 2020-2035
Table 4: Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 5: Global Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Region, 2020-2035
Table 6: North America Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 7: North America Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 8: North America Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Voltage Rating, 2020-2035
Table 9: North America Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 10: North America Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country, 2020-2035
Table 11: Europe Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 12: Europe Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 13: Europe Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Voltage Rating, 2020-2035
Table 14: Europe Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 15: Europe Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 16: Asia Pacific Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 17: Asia Pacific Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 18: Asia Pacific Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Voltage Rating, 2020-2035
Table 19: Asia Pacific Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 20: Asia Pacific Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 21: Latin America Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 22: Latin America Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 23: Latin America Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Voltage Rating, 2020-2035
Table 24: Latin America Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 25: Latin America Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 26: Middle East & Africa Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 27: Middle East & Africa Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 28: Middle East & Africa Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Voltage Rating, 2020-2035
Table 29: Middle East & Africa Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 30: Middle East & Africa Metal Oxide Varistors MOV for Surge Arresters Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
