The average prices of DRAM and NAND flash memory chips are expected to significantly improve in the fourth quarter, helped by stronger demand for notebook computers and a supply shortage in the NAND flash market, according to industry data Wednesday.

The average contract price of DRAM for personal computers rose 7.4 percent on-month in September to $14.50, and the price for the fourth quarter “will reach its highest point in two years due to stronger-than-expected notebook demand worldwide,” DRAMeXchange said in a statement. 

“At the same time, the NAND Flash market is experiencing shortages,” DRAMeXchange added. “In the fourth quarter, the average selling price of eMCP will increase by 10-15 percent versus the prior quarter.”

The embedded multi-chip package memory is comprised of NAND flash memory chips and other parts.

Industry observers expect strong prices of NAND flash memory chips to help Samsung Electronics and SK hynix increase their earnings in the fourth quarter.

Samsung is said to begin production of fourth-generation, 64-layer vertical NAND flash memory chips at the end of this year.

It is currently putting the final touches on new semiconductor production lines in Pyeongtaek, 70 kilometers south of Seoul. The new facilities will likely produce NAND flash memory chips to meet roaring demand.

SK hynix is also expanding its shipments for NAND flash memory chips. The company‘s sales of NAND flash memory chips jumped 37 percent in the second quarter. (Yonhap)