As major memory makers exit the 2D NAND market, tight supply has driven low-density SLC and MLC NAND prices up nearly 10x since early 2026. In April alone, MLC NAND rose close to 30%. Industry sources suggest UMC may take over SLC/MLC flash foundry orders, potentially reshaping supply.

However, multiple bottlenecks make near-term entry difficult: scarce talent with 2D NAND mass production experience, long rebuilding of process integration and yield control, and equipment challenges. Old tools have been scrapped, and new ones require 1–2 years for ramp-up.

UMC declined to comment on the rumor but announced wafer price hikes for H2 2026: 8-inch up 10–15%, 12-inch mature nodes up 5–10%, effective for April tape-outs.

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