Memory chip shortage drives growth for Changxin Memory Technologies

A global shortage of memory chips, driven by intense demand from artificial intelligence data centers, is reshaping both the semiconductor industry and the secondary electronics market.

In China, Changxin Memory Technologies has emerged as a major industry player following its initial public offering on the Shanghai Stock Exchange. The company’s value has reportedly increased by over 500 percent, allowing it to compete with established giants such as Samsung and Micron by capturing significant market share in China. This growth has propelled CEO Zhu Yiming to billionaire status, with his personal wealth estimated at approximately $13.9 billion.

The shortage is also impacting the consumer market. Rising costs for new components have increased the value of used and even damaged devices. Refurbishment companies are increasingly competing for parts from older smartphones, as the cost of new memory and other components makes salvaged parts more economically viable. Data indicates that prices for used Apple and Samsung devices rose in the second quarter of 2026, with a shift in demand toward mid-range, functional used devices over low-quality scrap.