China blocks exports of helium, key for chipmaking, as Iran war squeezes supply

China temporarily blocked helium exports, a move driven by supply disruptions tied to the escalation of the Iran war. The Hong Kong-based Associated Press reported that China’s commerce ministry and its customs agency announced an immediate temporary export ban effective Friday, without additional details. Helium is described as critical for semiconductor manufacturing and also used in medical applications, including cooling MRI machines. Global helium supplies were already disrupted since late February, and prices have risen substantially. China produces about 15% or less of its own helium, relying on imports largely from Qatar, which accounts for roughly one-third of global supply. Analysts cited by the report said the measure is likely aimed more at securing local supply as demand for chipmaking tightens. It remains unclear when global supply will normalize.