China just pulled the emergency brake on helium exports. The country’s Ministry of Commerce and General Administration of Customs announced an immediate, temporary ban on July 10, citing urgent domestic supply needs as geopolitical chaos reshapes the global helium market.
A supply crisis with multiple pressure points
China isn’t acting in a vacuum. Russia imposed its own temporary helium export controls back in April 2026, with restrictions set to run through the end of 2027. That means two major nations are now actively restricting helium flows at the same time global demand is surging.
The supply picture gets worse when you zoom out. Qatar’s Ras Laffan LNG facility, which previously accounted for roughly one-third of global helium production, has suffered operational damage from regional conflicts. Logistical disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have compounded the problem.
The US produces approximately 43% of global supply, Qatar contributes about 33%, and Russia accounts for around 8%. With Qatar’s output damaged and Russia hoarding, the math isn’t great for anyone outside the US who needs this gas.
