Distributors force unprecedented RAM and motherboard bundle mandate to fight global shortage, report claims — distributors require one-to-one ratio from buyers

Some distributors in Taiwan are reportedly mandating an unprecedented bundling requirement due to the global DRAM shortage, forcing buyers to purchase motherboards alongside DRAM modules at a one-to-one ratio or risk being denied access to memory stock. This tactic aims to drive additional board sales and has benefited companies like Asus, Gigabyte, MSI, and Chaintech. The DRAM memory chip shortage has led to a 170% increase in DRAM contract prices year over year, with demand from AI server manufacturers being a significant driver. While this bundling strategy is currently localized to the Taiwanese market, it reflects the tightening of DRAM allocation across the entire supply chain, posing new challenges for downstream buyers.