Russia Restricts Helium Exports to Protect Local Market

Russia has implemented temporary export controls on helium to ensure a stable supply for its domestic market, particularly for the production of fiber optics and semiconductors. The government announced on Tuesday that the new regulatory regime will remain in effect until the end of 2027, requiring special government permission for any exports sent outside the Eurasian Economic Union. This decision comes as the conflict in the Middle East tightens global availability of the gas, which is vital for cooling, leak detection, and precision manufacturing in the chipmaking industry. In the domestic sector, helium-dependent fiber optics are seeing increased usage by the military for drone operations. Currently, the country is the world's third-largest producer of helium, accounting for roughly 8% of global output. It trails the United States and Qatar, with the latter producing more than one-third of the global supply as of 2025. Within the domestic industry, GAZPROM PJSC remains the dominant player through its Amur Gas Processing Plant in the Far East. Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin recently addressed the shifting trade landscape resulting from international instability, stating: > "Global supply disruptions caused by the war in the Middle East have opened up new trade opportunities for Russia, but price stability in the domestic market remains a priority."