US defines helium as a "critical material" – here's why
The US Department of Energy has classified helium gas as a "critical material" for industry, due to its importance in semiconductor manufacturing and concerns over global supply disruptions, amid Russian restrictions and disruptions from Qatar. The designation means increased federal funding for producers and tighter government oversight.
The US Department of Energy has declared helium gas a "critical material," a step highlighting its strategic importance for the semiconductor and energy industries. The decision was made amid concerns over global supply chain disruptions that could harm semiconductor production. At the heart of the decision is dependence on two major helium producers outside the US: Qatar and Russia. Supply from Qatar was affected by Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and Russia imposed temporary export restrictions in April. Designating helium as a critical material will allow increased federal funding for domestic producers and tighter oversight. The US is the world's largest helium producer, with 43% of global supply and production of 81 million cubic meters in 2025, but domestic production is limited by plant capacity.