Qatar Ras Laffan helium/LNG offline; chips/MRI/AI crisis; Hormuz/Bab Indo-Pacific risks; critical minerals traceability
Key Questions
How much of the global helium supply is affected?
Over 33% of helium (30% global supply) from Qatar's Ras Laffan is offline from June to August, impacting semiconductors, MRI machines, and AI technologies. UAE's Habshan also faces risks.
What are the broader supply chain impacts?
Hormuz disruptions hit Qatar LNG shipments to Asia, exacerbating issues. New traceability platforms for critical minerals, like SMX's, address disruptions in rare earth elements.
Which sectors are most impacted by the helium shortage?
Semiconductor production, medical MRI imaging, and AI applications are facing crises due to the supply offline period.
33%+ helium (30% global) offline Jun-Aug impacting semis/MRI/AI; Hormuz/Bab hits Qatar LNG to Asia (3-5yr repairs)/desal; ongoing traceability for minerals amid disruptions.
Sources (1)
Updated Apr 12, 2026