China Bans Helium Exports: Will Adjust Management Based on Supply and Demand Changes

(CNA, Taipei, 16th) Previously, China announced temporary export control measures on helium. He Yaqing, spokesperson for China's Ministry of Commerce, said today that export management policies will be adjusted in a timely manner based on changes in domestic and international helium supply and demand.

On the 10th, China's Ministry of Commerce and General Administration of Customs decided to implement temporary export restrictions on helium, effective immediately upon announcement. According to disclosures by the China Industrial Gas Association, since 2026, global geopolitical shifts have plunged the global helium market into a new period of volatility. China's helium imports are highly concentrated in Qatar (approximately 54.6%) and Russia (approximately 44%). Simultaneous disruptions in these two core supply sources have significantly pressured import channels, resulting in a helium supply shortfall exceeding 60%.

The Ministry of Commerce held a regular press conference today. In response to related inquiries, He Yaqing stated that China is a major helium importing country. To ensure domestic supply, the Ministry of Commerce and General Administration of Customs jointly issued an announcement deciding to implement temporary export control on helium.

He Yaqing said the measure complies with relevant provisions of China's 'Foreign Trade Law' and WTO rules. Going forward, export management policies will be adjusted in a timely manner based on changes in domestic and international helium supply and demand.

Helium is one of the critical resources, and its stable supply is irreplaceably important for the security of China's strategic emerging industrial chains in sectors such as semiconductors, healthcare, and aerospace. (Edited by Lu Chia-jung / Chen Kai-yu) 1150716