Boxes of 100 server-grade DDR5 memory now cost as much as property in Shanghai in China spot market — single 256GB server sticks now over $5,700

DRAM prices in China's spot market have skyrocketed, with a box of 100 server-grade DDR5 memory modules now costing as much as property in Shanghai. Individual 256GB server sticks are priced over $5,700, with some listings going as high as $7,000. Despite the steep prices, demand seems to be weak, as buyers are hesitant to commit to these exorbitant costs. The surge in prices is attributed to a global memory industry shift from oversupply to constraint, with forecasts indicating further price increases in early 2026. China's domestic memory ambitions and reliance on global supply decisions leave its market vulnerable to sudden price spikes, creating a paradox where memory is extremely expensive but challenging to sell.