China Blocks Helium Exports for Chipmakers as Iran War Tightens Global Supply

Associated Press—China has banned exports of helium, a critical element in semiconductor manufacturing, further squeezing global supply already disrupted by the ongoing Iran war. The move is part of Beijing's broader strategy of restricting critical minerals and elements in response to Western tech sanctions. The United States is emerging as a potential beneficiary, with domestic helium reserves positioned to fill some of the void left by the combined Chinese and Iranian supply disruptions.

• Associated Press — China blocks exports of helium, key for chipmaking, as Iran war squeezes supply
• Nikkei Asia — US domestic helium reserves positioned to benefit as Beijing ban and Iran war simultaneously cut global supply
• ABC News — Technology — China blocks exports of helium, key for chipmaking, as Iran war squeezes supply