Industry insiders revealed that Samsung Electronics has raised supply prices by approximately 15% for new customers, primarily focusing on advanced processes such as 4nm and 5nm, which are experiencing strong demand, as well as some 8nm processes used in automotive applications. TSMC has also notified major customers of plans to raise supply prices for 3nm, 5nm, and 7nm processes by approximately 5% to 10%. The industry's focus is not just on the price increases, but on the changing pricing logic.
In the past, it was uncommon for foundries to raise prices for the same process technology unless they moved to the next generation. However, the AI wave has changed this pattern. With expanded AI investment and persistent supply shortages, the bargaining power of manufacturers like Samsung and TSMC has further strengthened. Industry insiders believe that TSMC is leading the way in readjusting prices for the same process technology based on market conditions. As long as the AI investment cycle continues and the tight supply and demand situation for advanced processes persists, the upward trend in foundry prices is likely to continue.
