China’s MLCC market splits in two as AI server demand outpaces consumer electronics

Shenzhen distributors say speculative buying in consumer MLCCs is fading, but demand for AI server parts continues to strain supply

Spot prices for consumer-grade MLCCs, often dubbed the “the rice of the electronics industry”, have fallen by two-thirds from their peak two months ago, according to Wang Jun, an MLCC distributor in Huaqiangbei, a commercial zone in the city known for electronic parts.

However, prices remained higher than before the rally, which was “more speculative rather than driven by downstream demand”, said Wang, manager at Tongxin Chuanghui Technology, which trades imported MLCCs from global leaders including Murata Manufacturing and Samsung Electro-Mechanics (Semco).