In early 2026, the semiconductor sector found itself in the throes of a widespread price hike, driven by a confluence of factors. Initially, the impact was most evident in AI computing chips and memory chips. However, the price - hike phenomenon soon began to permeate other parts of the supply chain. It spread to manufacturing and packaging/testing procedures, as well as the upstream areas of key materials and core components.

Today, ACM Semiconductor released a notice regarding price increases. The notice explained that the company is grappling with a tight chip supply situation across the industry, along with escalating costs. As a result, the delivery cycle for its packaged finished products has lengthened. Moreover, expenses related to frameworks and packaging/testing services have kept climbing, creating substantial supply - demand imbalances and cost - related pressures.