China has imposed a temporary ban on helium exports, a move that could add further pressure to global semiconductor supply chains already strained by geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions.
China’s Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs announced on July 10 that the export restriction would take immediate effect under the country’s Foreign Trade Law. Authorities did not specify how long the ban would remain in place or explain the reason for the decision, saying only that any future adjustments would be announced separately. The government also did not clarify how existing export contracts or shipments already undergoing customs clearance would be handled.
Helium plays a critical role in semiconductor manufacturing, where it is used to cool wafers and production equipment, detect leaks in vacuum systems, and support other precision manufacturing processes. It is also widely used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems, aerospace applications, fiber-optic production, and quantum computing.
Industry observers believe the export ban is aimed at safeguarding domestic helium supplies for China’s semiconductor, healthcare, and aerospace sectors amid growing uncertainty in the global helium market. Supply concerns have intensified following instability in the Middle East and tighter export controls introduced by Russia. As China imports the majority of the helium it consumes, the restriction may also be intended to prevent domestic shortages and price increases.
Despite the announcement, analysts say the direct impact on global helium supply could be limited because China is not a major producer. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the United States accounted for about 43% of global helium production in 2025, followed by Qatar with 33% and Russia with 9%. China produced only about 3 million cubic metres, representing roughly 1.6% of global output, while importing more than 80% of its domestic helium needs.
South Korea’s dependence on Chinese helium remains relatively low. Data from the Korea International Trade Association shows that Qatar supplied 64.7% of South Korea’s helium imports last year, followed by the United States at 27.1% and Russia at 6.2%. Together, those three countries accounted for approximately 98% of South Korea’s helium imports. Major chipmakers Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix are also reported to have built up several months of helium inventory.
However, market analysts warn that the ban could tighten helium availability across Asia. China has traditionally re-exported refined liquid helium imported from overseas to neighbouring markets such as South Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. If the restrictions remain in place for an extended period, buyers in the region may face stronger competition for supplies from other producers, potentially pushing up spot prices and increasing procurement costs for semiconductor manufacturers.
The latest move follows previous Chinese export restrictions on strategic materials such as gallium, germanium, graphite and certain rare earth elements, highlighting the growing role of critical minerals and industrial gases in global supply chain competition.
