China bans helium exports to secure chip and medical supplies

China's Ministry of Commerce and General Administration of Customs announced a temporary ban on helium exports on July 10, 2026, effective immediately under provisions of the Foreign Trade Law. The measure applies to helium classified under customs code 2804290010.

Helium is a critical material for semiconductor manufacturing, medical imaging (MRI cooling), aerospace, and defense applications. China produces only about 15% or less of its domestic helium demand, relying heavily on imports from Qatar—which supplies roughly one-third of global helium. China's major helium export markets have included the European Union, Japan, France, South Korea, and the United States.

The ban reflects intensifying global helium supply disruptions stemming from the Iran conflict escalation that began in late February 2026 and Russian export controls. Global helium prices have risen substantially as supply has become "very tight." Analysts attribute China's move primarily to securing adequate domestic supply for its semiconductor and medical sectors rather than to political motivations, coinciding with China's broader push toward chipmaking self-sufficiency amid technological competition with the United States.

China is a relatively small helium exporter globally, meaning the ban is unlikely to significantly impact worldwide supply, though it may add modest pressure given current supply disruptions. The government stated that further adjustments to the policy will be announced separately.