China Bans All Exports of Helium, a Key Semiconductor Material

The Chinese government has completely banned exports of helium, a key material for semiconductors.

The Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs explained in a notice on the 10th that the measure is based on relevant regulations of the Foreign Trade Law, but did not disclose the specific background for implementation or the duration of the ban.

Helium is a strategic resource used as a coolant in the manufacturing process of semiconductors and displays. This control is interpreted as an extension of China's move to strengthen management over core resources such as rare earths.