# AI Infrastructure Suppliers Face Extended Lead Times

The AI infrastructure supply chain is experiencing significant and prolonged component shortages, with lead times for critical parts such as ABF substrates reaching up to **56 weeks** and semiconductor equipment parts extending to **40 months**. These delays are driven by structural constraints including slow capacity expansion and rising capital costs, impacting procurement timelines and vendor selection for AI-related government and industry projects. Suppliers with stable production capabilities, notably Samsung Electronics, SK Hynix, and Samsung Electro-Mechanics, are positioned to gain increased market leverage amid these supply challenges.

- Procurement professionals should anticipate extended delivery schedules for AI infrastructure components, requiring early planning and risk mitigation strategies.
- Agencies and contractors involved in AI and semiconductor projects may need to prioritize partnerships with established suppliers demonstrating production stability.
- This supply constraint environment underscores the importance of diversifying supply sources and considering long-term contracts to secure critical components.
- Organizations should evaluate the impact of these lead times on project timelines and budget forecasts, adjusting procurement strategies accordingly.

**Jurisdictions:** international
**Industries:** Information Technology
**Topics:** Digital Infrastructure
**Published:** September 16, 2026

### Vendors
- Samsung Electronics (supplier)
- SK Hynix (supplier)
- Samsung Electro-Mechanics (supplier)
- Company A (semiconductor equipment maker)
- Company B (semiconductor laser process equipment manufacturer)

### Key Quotes
> MLCC average selling prices (ASP) continue to rise, driven by AI and data center demand.
> — Park Kang-ho, Analyst at Daishin Securities

> The reason supply can't keep up with demand is structural.
> — Park Se-woong, Analyst at Samsung Securities

### Sources
- [AI Component Crunch Becomes Reality: ABF Substrate Lead Times Hit 56 Weeks, Equipment Parts Up to 40 Months — BigGo Finance](https://finance.biggo.com/news/02cf5c8f-c58d-45f8-a7a3-8fe37716bc8f) - finance.biggo.com