Rigid-flex PCB, passive component prices to remain steady

According to C. C. Tung, vice chairman of Compeq Mfg Co. Ltd, the prices of rigid-flex PCBs and passive components will not increase this year. "There is no room for rigid-flex PCB companies to increase their prices, even though the prices for raw materials, such as laminates, are expected to rise."

He explained, "PCB prices are determined by demand and supply in the market. However, supply is higher than demand at present. We will not increase our prices just because of the high cost of raw materials. Besides, the demand for PCs decreased during the second quarter of this year."

Also, Prices of passive components, including chip resistors and capacitors, will not increase during the second quarter of this year stated C. S. Oweng, acting spokesperson from Yageo Corp. He said "Major Japanese makers are running at 70 percent of their capacity. Although the demand for passive components is increasing, there is no sign yet for the industry's recovery. Therefore, there is no room for price increase for passive components."

He also added, "the output from our Japanese rivals have only increased by 10 percent to 20 percent since late last year. Unless, they operate at 90 percent to 95 percent of their capacities, a price increase will be necessary."