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China Says It Will Adjust Helium Export Controls After Last Week’s Shipment Suspension
The Ministry of Commerce said it will revise helium export policies based on supply shifts. The move follows a one-week overseas shipment halt to protect domestic needs.
Jul 16, 5:33 AM·1m read1 source
South China Morning PostAudio version
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China will adjust its export controls on helium in response to changes in domestic and global supply conditions, the Ministry of Commerce said. The announcement came after the country temporarily suspended overseas shipments of the gas last week amid tightening global supplies.
Ministry spokesman He Yadong said at a Thursday press conference that the temporary ban aligned with China’s foreign trade laws and World Trade Organization rules.
He described China as a major importer of helium and stated the suspension aimed to safeguard domestic supply. Helium is a by-product of liquefied natural gas production and serves as a critical input for semiconductors, medical equipment and aerospace industries. More than 85 per cent of China’s helium supply comes from overseas sources, according to data cited by consultancy Trivium China.
He Yadong added that China will adjust its export-management policies in a timely manner based on changes in domestic and international helium supply and demand.
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