Driven by AI demand, a comprehensive price increase for passive components is about to arrive

The accelerating development of AI is extending its pull on semiconductors from AI chips to broader fields. Recently, passive components have received a more definitive signal of comprehensive price increases—Japan's major passive component manufacturer Murata has initiated internal discussions regarding price increases for MLCCs (Multi-Layer Ceramic Capacitors). Previously, influenced by rising raw material prices and demand from AI and the automotive sector, various passive components, including MLCCs, resistors, inductors, tantalum capacitors, and magnetic beads, have already experienced multiple rounds of price increases, with price increases generally ranging from 5% to 30% from the second half of 2025 to February 2026.

The latest price increase situation in the industry is that companies such as Yageo, Walsin Technology, and Panasonic have issued price increase notices, announcing price hikes for their related products starting from February 1, with price increases ranging from 15% to 30%.

"In fact, the combination of high demand and rising raw material prices has just begun the price increase trend for passive components," said a distributor. Murata's price increase for MLCCs not only indicates the strong momentum of AI and the certainty of the prosperity of high-end passive components but will also squeeze low-end MLCC capacity, thereby driving passive components into a comprehensive price increase phase. (Shanghai Securities Journal)