China imposes temporary ban on helium exports

China will impose a temporary ban on the export of helium under relevant provisions of its Foreign Trade Law, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Commerce on Friday.

Jointly announced by the Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs, this decision will take effect immediately and subsequent adjustments will be announced.

Helium is widely used in such fields as semiconductor manufacturing, optical fiber manufacturing, aerospace, low-temperature superconductivity research, and high-end welding and testing.