The U.S. designated helium a critical material, making more federal financing available to helium producers. The decision comes as war in the Middle East and export curbs by Russia and China squeeze global supplies of the gas, which is vital to chipmaking, and Europe seeks to secure its share.
WHO:The U.S. government
WHAT:Designated helium a critical material, making more federal financing available to helium producers.
WHEN:Reported Oct 23, 2026 at 3:59 PM ET
WHERE:USA
WHY:The designation makes more federal financing available for helium producers.
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