US designates helium a critical material amid global supply concerns
The short version
- The US has designated helium as a critical material.
- Helium is essential for semiconductor manufacturing.
- Global helium supply is under threat from geopolitical tensions.
- Russia and China have imposed export curbs affecting helium availability.
- Europe is struggling to secure its helium supply amid the disruption.
What we don’t know yet
- Which specific regions or industries in Europe are most affected by the supply squeeze?
- What steps the US is taking to ensure domestic helium supply stability?
- How long the global supply disruption is expected to last.
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Coverage compared
How coverage grew
First reported by Toronto Star US designates helium as a critical material, citing its importance for semiconductors
Euronews US designates helium as critical material as Europe faces supply squeeze
CBS News U.S. designates helium a critical material, days after 60 Minutes report