AI demand triggers PCB shortage: lead times stretch to 30 months

AI computing demand is consuming PCB production capacity, causing shortages and price hikes for PC makers. Some PCB orders now take up to 30 months to fulfill, new orders won't ship until late 2028, and copper clad laminate costs have surged at least 12x since July.

• Some PCB order lead times have stretched to 30 months
• CCL costs have surged at least 12x since July
• One major CCL supplier's order book is full until 2030
• PCB industry salaries rose 20–30% to retain staff