Bangladesh’s technology retail sector is experiencing a sharp and unexpected slowdown as a global shortage of memory chips sends hardware prices soaring and freezes consumer demand. Once-busy computer markets are now seeing long stretches without sales, as laptops and desktops become increasingly unaffordable for everyday buyers.
The crisis has unfolded rapidly over the past few months, driven by a surge in global demand for advanced chips used in artificial intelligence systems. As manufacturers pivot toward supplying AI infrastructure, the availability of memory components for personal computers has tightened significantly, triggering steep price hikes that have rippled through Bangladesh’s IT ecosystem.
Explosive Rise in RAM and Component Prices
At the center of the disruption is a dramatic increase in memory prices. Retailers and distributors report that RAM prices have climbed by as much as 400% in just two months. A memory module that sold for approximately Tk7,500 in October is now being offered for as much as Tk30,000 in December.
Other essential components have not been spared. Prices of solid-state drives and processors have increased by roughly 40%, pushing the overall cost of laptops and desktop computers up by nearly 30%. For many buyers, especially students and freelancers, these sudden jumps have pushed basic systems beyond affordable limits.
Retailers say the speed of the price increases has made it difficult to plan inventory or maintain consistent pricing. Unlike gradual cost adjustments, the sudden escalation has left both sellers and customers struggling to keep pace with the market.
AI Demand Reshapes the Global Chip Supply Chain
The shortage stems largely from the explosive growth of artificial intelligence technologies, particularly generative AI platforms that rely on massive data processing capabilities. These systems require high-bandwidth memory and advanced DDR5 chips, which are increasingly being diverted toward servers and data centers.
As chipmakers prioritize AI-related production, supplies of conventional memory used in laptops, desktops, and smartphones have tightened. According to Reuters, the worldwide rush to manufacture AI chips has squeezed availability for consumer electronics, prompting panic buying in some markets and further destabilizing prices.
The global DRAM industry is dominated by just three companies—Micron Technology, SK Hynix, and Samsung—which together control more than 95% of supply. This concentration has magnified the impact of production shifts, leaving smaller markets like Bangladesh particularly vulnerable to global pricing decisions.
In December, Samsung raised DDR5 RAM prices by more than 100%, with per-unit costs jumping from $7 to $19.50. Technology outlet Tom’s Guide has reported that the price surge shows no immediate signs of easing, while SK Hynix has warned that shortages could persist until late 2027.
Retailers Face Unprecedented Sales Declines
The consequences are being felt acutely across Bangladesh’s IT retail landscape. In Dhaka’s major computer markets, traders report steep drops in foot traffic and sales, even during weekends that are typically the busiest periods.
At BCS Computer City in Agargaon, one of the capital’s largest technology hubs, retailers say entire days are passing without a single laptop or desktop sale. A salesperson at Techvalley Distribution reported that by mid-afternoon on a recent Friday, sales amounted only to a small volume of accessories worth Tk9,000. With a staff of 15 employees, sustaining operations without regular sales has become increasingly challenging.
Similar conditions are emerging in other commercial hubs, where businesses accustomed to steady turnover are now struggling to cover rent, salaries, and operating expenses. Concerns are growing that prolonged weakness could lead to layoffs or shop closures if conditions do not improve.
Consumers Delay Purchases or Settle for Less
Buyers are also feeling the pressure. Ahsan Habib, who is searching for a personal laptop, said his budget no longer stretches far enough. A system with an Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD—previously available for around Tk48,000—now costs close to Tk55,000.
For many consumers, particularly students and first-time buyers, the higher prices have forced difficult choices. Some are delaying purchases entirely, while others are opting for lower specifications than originally planned, sacrificing performance to stay within budget.
Industry Leaders Warn of Ongoing Instability
Industry representatives say the market has been unusually volatile for months. Md Nazrul Islam Hazari, director of the Bangladesh Computer Samity, described the situation as unpredictable, noting that declining purchasing power and fluctuating prices have complicated both retail sales and large-scale procurement.
Corporate and government orders, which often help stabilize the market during slow retail periods, have also been affected. Rising component costs have strained institutional budgets and disrupted procurement timelines.
Zettabyte Technologies, which operates outlets in Multiplan Computer City and Jashore, reported a 60% drop in sales over the past two months. The company says many customers are postponing purchases in hopes that prices will stabilize, while those with urgent needs are choosing lower-end configurations.
Sales Data and Stock Shortages Highlight the Downturn
Sales figures from Multiplan Computer City further illustrate the depth of the slowdown. PC Geek BD managing director Habib Anik said only eight laptops were sold up to December 17, compared with 31 units in October. While prices have risen by around 30%, demand has fallen sharply.
Online inventories reflect similar strain. A review of Star Tech Ltd’s website shows widespread shortages of RAM from brands such as Corsair, Kingston, and Transcend. Some memory modules are available only when bundled with complete desktop systems, limiting consumer choice.
