Samsung Electronics reportedly has been aggressively raising its DRAM module prices with plans to push up the contract quotes for 4GB DDR3 parts to US$25-27 by the end of 2012. Some industry observers, however, are suspicious given the unfavorable global economic conditions.

DRAM contract prices have registered sequential growth since the second half of January, but the rally started to decelerate in late May. 4GB DDR3 modules are now quoted at about US$21.50, the observers indicated.

Chip suppliers are still negotiating June quotes with their OEM clients, the observers said, adding that prices are likely to stay flat or go up slightly. End-market demand remains sluggish to discourage the PC OEMs from stepping up their purchases, the observers noted.

PC OEMs have adopted a conservative attitude toward the third quarter despite it being a traditional peak season for their industry. Hewlett-Packard (HP) reportedly has cut its orders for DRAM chips.

Industry sources generally believe that DRAM prices should rise at a gradual pace rather than rapidly in the second half of 2012.