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Economy · Washington, DC, US · United States of America ·

US designates helium a critical material as supplies tighten

The United States declared helium a critical material as the Middle East war and export curbs by Russia and China squeeze global supply. Helium is vital to chipmaking, and Europe is scrambling to secure its share, Euronews reported.

Why it matters

Helium shortages could affect semiconductor production and medical equipment such as MRI scanners.

Background

Qatar, the United States and Russia are among the world's main helium producers. Critical-material status lets governments prioritize supply and investment.

Sources

This summary was written automatically from the reporting linked above; follow the sources for the full story. How One Turn works.

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