What does PPE resin have to do with my phone?

PPE resin is a key ingredient in the laminate that forms the base of printed circuit boards (PCBs). Your phone, and virtually all electronic devices, need PCBs to function.

Will my electronics get more expensive because of this attack?

Yes, it's highly likely. The disruption to a critical material like PPE resin, combined with existing chip shortages and other supply chain issues, will lead to increased manufacturing costs that are usually passed on to consumers.

Can other companies make this PPE resin?

While other companies might produce PPE resin, SABIC is reported to supply approximately 70% of the *high-purity* grade essential for advanced PCBs. Shifting to alternative suppliers or developing new production methods takes considerable time and investment.

🔧 AI Hardware

Iran Strike Cripples 70% of PCB Material Supply

The delicate dance of global electronics manufacturing just tripped on a minefield. An attack in Saudi Arabia has choked off a material vital to virtually every gadget you own.

The AI Catchup Apr 27, 2026 4 min read

A close-up shot of a complex printed circuit board with many microchips and pathways.

⚡ Key Takeaways

An Iranian strike on a Saudi petrochemical complex has halted production of high-purity PPE resin, a critical component for PCBs. 𝕏
SABIC, responsible for 70% of global high-purity PPE resin supply, cannot resume production, impacting downstream electronics manufacturing. 𝕏
This disruption exacerbates existing chip shortages and supply chain fragilities, promising higher prices for consumer electronics. 𝕏