RAM shortage expected to linger until 2030, analysts warn

The RAM shortage that has haunted PC makers and smartphone assemblers shows no sign of abating. Industry analysts cite a confluence of supply-chain bottlenecks and soaring demand for AI‑driven workloads. Even as DRAM fabs accelerate output, the sector is slated to satisfy just ↓ 60% of global demand by the close of 2027.

RAM shortage timeline extends to 2030

SK Group chairman Lee Suk‑yeol warned that the deficit could linger until 2030, a horizon that could reshape pricing across the consumer tech market. Samsung, SK Hynix and Micron have announced multi‑billion‑dollar capex plans, targeting a cumulative capacity lift of ↑ 15% per year, yet the ramp‑up curve remains steep.

“We are committing every resource to bridge the gap, but the market dynamics are unforgiving,” the chairman said.

Analysts at Reuters note that inventory levels at major OEMs have already dipped below safe thresholds, prompting a scramble for allocation priority. The lingering RAM shortage is set to pressure device margins, delay product launches and accelerate the shift toward alternative memory architectures.

Analysis by: Julian Reed

Consumer Electronics Expert