Ajinomoto to Raise ABF Film Prices by 30% as AI Supercycle Drives Substrate Demand

Ajinomoto, the dominant supplier of ABF films used in advanced chip substrates, is reportedly planning to raise its film prices by at least 30%. The increase is driven by a widening supply-demand gap for ABF substrates, which is now expected to persist through the end of 2027. The move is attributed to the AI supercycle, which has dramatically boosted demand for high-end substrates used in AI GPUs and ASICs.

Film price hike to raise substrate costs 3-6%

According to market sources, a 30% hike in ABF film prices would translate to a 3% to 6% increase in overall substrate costs. Separately, general ABF substrate prices are forecast to rise 5-10% in the second half of 2026. Spot prices for ABF substrates are reportedly surging by over 30%. Top substrate manufacturers including Unimicron, Kinsus, and Nay Ya PCB have already seen revenue gains as they run at full capacity through the end of 2025.

The price increase is expected to take effect in the second half of 2026. Ajinomoto has not officially confirmed the plan, and the report is based on market rumors.

The supply crunch is part of a broader trend in the semiconductor industry, where AI-driven demand has outstripped capacity for advanced packaging materials. Substrate makers are passing on higher material costs to customers, and the tight supply is expected to continue for years.