Surging global demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure is creating a significant supply crunch for printed circuit boards (PCBs) and chip substrates. [1, 3] AI servers require more complex, material-intensive boards than conventional electronics, using a disproportionate share of production capacity. [5, 16] The resulting shortages and higher costs affect both high-end components and standard materials, creating bottlenecks throughout the technology supply chain. [2, 3]
The crunch is affecting sectors beyond AI. Consumer electronics makers such as HP and Dell face constraints as they plan supply needs for 2027. [8, 17] Zhen Ding Technology, the world’s largest PCB supplier, and other industry leaders expect no near-term relief. [4] Some analysts predict shortages could persist into 2027 or 2028. [4] Longer lead times and allocation-driven supply are becoming features of this structural shift. [5]