Shortages of IT equipment are spreading, while the rapid expansion of generative AI is tightening semiconductor supply and demand. The resulting surge in prices is spreading to cloud and software fees, and the situation in which companies' IT costs are gradually rising has become clear.
IT equipment such as servers and routers is becoming increasingly difficult to procure, with procurement challenges spreading across the IT operations of Japanese companies. The rapid adoption of generative AI has triggered competition for semiconductors, driving prices higher.
There is also a view that a further escalation of tensions in the Middle East could push up logistics costs, potentially affecting the cost of IT investment. The impact is spreading beyond hardware to cloud and software fees, forcing companies to make procurement choices and determine how to respond.
This feature examines the reality of procurement difficulties and price increases through on-the-ground reporting, and explores companies' future responses and options.