Global RAM shortage expected to persist until 2027-2030
Original: The RAM shortage could last years
Why This Matters
Persistent RAM shortages will drive up costs for all electronics through 2030
Memory manufacturers Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron are only expected to meet 60% of DRAM demand by end of 2027, according to Nikkei Asia. SK Group chairman warns shortages could last until 2030, as new fab capacity won't come online until 2027-2028.
Major memory makers are struggling to meet surging demand driven by AI data centers requiring high-bandwidth memory (HBM). While production needs to increase 12% annually in 2026-2027 to meet demand, only 7.5% growth is planned according to Counterpoint Research. SK Hynix opened one new fab in Cheongju in February 2026, but it's the only capacity increase among the big three this year. New facilities will primarily focus on HBM production for AI applications rather than general-purpose DRAM used in consumer devices. The shortage has already caused price increases across phones, laptops, VR headsets, and gaming handhelds, with no relief expected until late in the decade.