|
Forecast
Period
|
2026-2030
|
|
Market
Size (2024)
|
USD
4.10 Billion
|
|
Market
Size (2030)
|
USD
6.01 Billion
|
|
CAGR
(2025-2030)
|
6.58%
|
|
Fastest
Growing Segment
|
Gas
Phase
|
|
Largest
Market
|
Asia
Pacific
|
Market Overview
Global Helium
market was valued at USD 4.10 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach
USD 6.01 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 6.58%. The global helium market represents
a strategically vital segment of the industrial gases sector, defined by sustained
long-term demand, constrained supply channels, and a broad spectrum of high-value
applications across key industries. As a rare, non-renewable noble gas,
helium’s exceptional attributes including an ultra-low boiling point, chemical
inertness, and high thermal conductivity make it essential in critical domains
such as healthcare (e.g., MRI systems), semiconductor manufacturing, aerospace
propulsion, defense technologies, and advanced scientific research.
Amid rising
consumption from technology-driven sectors, the helium market is navigating a
complex landscape shaped by geographically concentrated reserves and growing
supply risks. The industry is positioned for continued expansion, underpinned
by strategic investments in new extraction projects, technological advancements,
and robust industrial demand. However, the path forward will depend heavily on enhancing
supply chain resilience, managing price volatility, and advancing sustainability
measures, including helium conservation and recycling. In this context, helium
is increasingly recognized not merely as a commodity gas, but as a critical
strategic resource in the evolving global industrial and technological
ecosystem.
Key Market Drivers
Rising Demand from the
Healthcare Sector
The
healthcare sector plays a pivotal role in driving the expansion of the global
helium market, contributing a significant share of both helium consumption and
long-term demand stability. As healthcare systems across the globe continue to
modernize and expand their infrastructure, the reliance on helium particularly
in its liquid form has increased considerably. This sustained growth is rooted
in the indispensable role helium plays in advanced diagnostic imaging,
respiratory therapy, and medical research. The largest single application of
helium in the healthcare industry is in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
systems, which are used for non-invasive, high-resolution imaging of internal
body structures. MRI machines depend on superconducting magnets, which must be
cooled to extremely low temperatures (approximately 4 Kelvin or -269°C) to
maintain their superconductive state. Liquid helium is the only element capable
of achieving and sustaining such ultra-cold temperatures, making it
irreplaceable in MRI operations. With the global healthcare industry placing
increasing emphasis on early diagnosis, preventive care, and non-invasive
medical imaging, the demand for MRI systems is growing rapidly particularly in
emerging economies where healthcare infrastructure is expanding at a
significant pace. In 2022, the global burden of cancer reached an estimated 20
million new cases, resulting in approximately 9.7 million cancer-related deaths.
Meanwhile, cardiovascular disease (CVD) remained the leading cause of mortality
worldwide, impacting more than 523 million individuals and accounting for an
estimated 20.5 million deaths in 2021, highlighting the urgent need for
scalable healthcare interventions and early detection strategies across both
disease areas. The rising incidence of chronic illnesses such as cancer,
cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, and musculoskeletal conditions
has led to a surge in demand for advanced diagnostic imaging, including MRIs.
The
aging global population, especially in developed countries, further contributes
to increased healthcare utilization and diagnostic needs. The United Nations
projects that the global population aged 65 and above will double over the
100-year period from 1974 to 2074, reaching 20.7% of the total population. This
demographic shift underscores the long-term implications of global aging on
healthcare systems, workforce dynamics, and social infrastructure. This
demographic shift is directly linked to the growth in helium demand, as more
MRI machines are deployed to meet growing patient loads. Emerging economies particularly
in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and parts of Africa are witnessing significant
investments in healthcare facilities, diagnostics centers, and hospitals. As
governments and private healthcare providers expand their diagnostic
capabilities, the number of MRI installations is rising steadily, increasing
helium consumption. Global health initiatives and public-private partnerships
are also facilitating access to advanced imaging technologies in previously
underserved regions, further driving demand.
In
addition to its use in imaging, gaseous helium is utilized in respiratory
therapies, particularly for patients with severe or chronic pulmonary
conditions. Helium, when mixed with oxygen (as in Heliox), helps improve
airflow by reducing resistance in constricted airways. This is especially
useful in treating asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and
upper airway obstructions. The increasing incidence of respiratory disorders,
particularly in urban areas with high pollution levels, has heightened the
demand for such therapies. A recent study estimates that approximately 7.4%
of the global population is affected by chronic respiratory conditions,
highlighting a substantial and persistent public health challenge with
significant implications for healthcare delivery and long-term disease
management strategies worldwide.
Increased Space Exploration
and Aerospace Activities
The
global helium market is experiencing a surge in demand due to the rapid
expansion of space exploration and aerospace activities. As both governmental
and private entities accelerate investments in satellite launches, space
missions, and aerospace technologies, helium has emerged as a critical enabler
in these highly technical and safety-sensitive operations. Its unique inert and
cryogenic properties make it indispensable in several key aerospace processes,
directly contributing to the helium market’s sustained and long-term growth. One
of the primary uses of helium in the space sector is in rocket propulsion and
fuel system management. Specifically, helium is used for Pressurizing fuel and
oxidizer tanks Helium’s inert nature makes it ideal for maintaining pressure
without reacting with liquid hydrogen or liquid oxygen. Purging fuel lines and
engines Helium is used to displace volatile gases and ensure a clean, safe
environment in rocket engines and fuel systems. These functions are vital to
the safe and efficient launch of space vehicles, including satellites, crewed
missions, and cargo delivery systems. As the number of global launches
increases driven by commercial ventures, defense projects, and scientific
missions the demand for high-purity helium is rising proportionately.
The
surge in satellite deployment, particularly in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), is
significantly boosting helium consumption. Major technology companies are
investing in global satellite internet constellations, which require frequent
rocket launches to maintain and expand coverage. Governments and private firms
are launching Earth observation, defense, and navigation satellites each
requiring multiple launches and helium-intensive pre-launch processes. As
launch frequency increases, so does the consumption of helium per mission,
driving strong and recurring demand. The transformation of space exploration
from a purely government-led activity into a commercially driven industry has
accelerated helium market growth. Private aerospace firms such as SpaceX, Blue
Origin, Rocket Lab, and ISRO commercial ventures are conducting more frequent
and reusable launches, each requiring significant volumes of helium. The
development of space tourism, lunar missions, and Mars exploration programs is
further expanding the operational footprint of the space industry and with it,
helium usage. This shift toward commercial space access ensures a consistent
and growing source of demand that is less dependent on public budgets and more
tied to private sector scalability.
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Key Market Challenges
Limited and Geographically
Concentrated Supply Sources
One
of the most fundamental challenges facing the global helium market is the
limited availability of helium reserves and the geographical concentration of
production.
Helium
is a finite resource, primarily extracted as a by-product of natural gas
processing. However, only a small percentage of natural gas fields contain
helium in economically recoverable concentrations. Major helium-producing
regions such as the United States, Qatar, Algeria, and Russia dominate global
supply, creating significant dependency on a few producers. This concentration
exposes the global market to geopolitical risks, operational disruptions, and
regional instabilities. For example, shutdowns of helium production facilities
or export restrictions from a key supplier can result in global shortages.
The
lack of diversified and scalable production capacity limits the ability of the
market to respond quickly to rising demand, making supply security a persistent
concern for end users.
Price Volatility and Market
Imbalance
Helium
prices are highly volatile due to the tight supply-demand balance, limited
substitutes, and the capital-intensive nature of production and storage. This
volatility poses challenges for buyers, particularly in price-sensitive
sectors.
Fluctuating
helium prices make it difficult for end-use industries such as healthcare
providers, manufacturers, and research institutions to manage procurement costs
and budgeting. Shortages often lead to sharp price spikes, which can disrupt
operations or delay critical projects that rely on helium, especially in
smaller economies with less purchasing power. The absence of a standardized
global pricing mechanism or transparent trading platforms further complicates
procurement and long-term contracting. This
market imbalance discourages investments in new applications or large-scale
helium infrastructure, thereby restricting wider market development.
Key Market Trends
Development of Helium
Recycling and Conservation Technologies
One
of the most impactful trends shaping the future of the helium market is the
increased adoption of helium recycling and conservation systems across
industries, especially in healthcare, electronics, and research institutions.
Helium
is a non-renewable and increasingly costly resource, which has prompted
high-volume users particularly hospitals and semiconductor manufacturers to
invest in closed-loop helium recovery systems. Zero boil-off MRI systems, for
example, are designed to minimize or eliminate helium loss during machine
operation, significantly reducing long-term consumption without compromising
performance. Research laboratories and industrial facilities are also
installing on-site recovery and purification systems that capture helium gas
after use and recycle it for repeated applications.
This
trend reflects a broader industry shift toward resource efficiency and cost
optimization, and as these technologies become more accessible and scalable,
they are expected to extend helium’s lifecycle and reduce supply strain ultimately
supporting sustainable market growth.
Exploration and
Commercialization of New Helium Reserves
With
increasing global demand and tight supply, there is a growing trend toward
exploration and development of new helium sources, particularly in regions
previously underexplored for helium content.
Countries
like Tanzania, Canada, and Australia have become emerging hotspots for new
helium discoveries, often as part of helium-focused exploration rather than as
a by-product of natural gas. Dedicated helium exploration companies are now
receiving greater investor interest and funding, supported by rising helium
prices and long-term demand visibility. These projects are focusing on
"green helium" extraction, which aims to reduce the carbon footprint
by avoiding associated hydrocarbon production.
The
commercialization of new and independent helium reserves is expected to
diversify global supply, reduce geopolitical risks, and ensure a more resilient
and competitive market environment in the coming decade.
Segmental Insights
Phase Insights
Based
on the category of Phase, the Gas segment emerged as the fastest growing in the
market for Helium in 2024. In June 2025, The Central Government has granted
approval to Micron Semiconductor to establish a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Sanand,
Gujarat, spanning 37.64 hectares. The SEZ will be developed with a projected
investment of INR 130 billion (approximately USD1.51 billion), positioning it
as a key strategic initiative to strengthen India’s semiconductor manufacturing
ecosystem and attract high-value technology investments. The rapid
expansion of the semiconductor and electronics industries, especially in Asia
Pacific and North America, is a key driver behind the rising consumption of
gaseous helium. In chip manufacturing and fiber optics production, helium gas
is used in controlled atmospheres and heat transfer processes, enabling
ultra-clean and stable manufacturing conditions. As global economies undergo
digital transformation and demand for high-performance computing, AI, and
consumer electronics grows, semiconductor manufacturers are scaling up
operations thereby significantly boosting the demand for helium in gas phase.
In
the medical and healthcare sector, gaseous helium is used in breathing
mixtures, especially for patients with respiratory disorders, due to its low
density and non-reactivity. Additionally, helium gas is critical in cooling MRI
machines, although often stored as a liquid, its transition into gas phase
during operation is essential to functionality. The rise in healthcare
infrastructure development, especially in emerging economies, is fueling a
strong increase in helium gas usage across medical diagnostics and therapeutic
applications. These factors contribute to the growth of this segment.
End User Insights
Based
on the category of End User, the Medical & Healthcare segment emerged as
the dominating segment in the market for Helium in 2024. At the core of the
medical & healthcare segment’s dominance lies the widespread use of
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines, which are the single largest
helium-consuming application globally. MRI systems rely on superconducting
magnets that must be maintained at ultra-low temperatures typically around 4
Kelvin (−269°C) to function effectively. This level of cooling can only be
achieved through the use of liquid helium, which has the lowest boiling point
of any element. Without helium, these machines cannot operate. As healthcare
systems around the world increasingly prioritize early diagnosis and
non-invasive imaging, the global installed base of MRI machines continues to
rise, particularly in developing economies. This expansion drives consistent,
large-scale demand for helium.
Governments
and private sector entities across the globe are investing heavily in
healthcare infrastructure to meet the growing demand for quality medical
services. This includes expanding hospitals, diagnostic centers, and research
facilities all of which depend on helium for various medical equipment and
applications. Helium Health, a Lagos-based healthtech company offering SaaS
solutions, financial services, and data-driven insights to healthcare providers
and public health institutions, has announced the successful closure of its USD30
million Series B funding round. The capital raise underscores investor
confidence in the company’s integrated approach to digitizing and financing
healthcare delivery across emerging markets. Emerging markets such as
India, China, Brazil, and Southeast Asian nations are experiencing significant
growth in diagnostic imaging capacity, which directly correlates with higher
helium consumption.
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Regional Insights
Asia
Pacific emerged as the largest market in the global Helium market in 2024,
holding the largest market share in terms of value. The Asia Pacific (APAC)
region has established itself as the largest market in the global helium
industry, primarily due to rapid industrialization, a growing manufacturing
base, and robust demand from electronics, healthcare, and aerospace sectors.
This dominance is expected to continue over the coming years, underpinned by
both supply-side and demand-side factors.
Rapid
urbanization and economic development in emerging economies such as India,
Vietnam, and Indonesia have led to increased helium usage in welding, fiber
optics production, and other industrial applications. As these economies
continue to industrialize, their consumption of helium in infrastructure,
automotive, and metal fabrication will grow substantially. Although
the APAC region lacks major helium production sources compared to the U.S. or
Qatar, it compensates through large-scale imports and strategic investments in
securing supply. Countries like China have been entering long-term contracts
and investing in foreign helium production and liquefaction infrastructure to
ensure supply chain stability. Additionally, companies in APAC are investing in
advanced storage and distribution technologies to handle helium more
efficiently and cost-effectively, further strengthening their market position.
Recent Developments
- In
July 2025, Linde has successfully brought online a large-scale helium storage
cavern in Beaumont, Texas, with a capacity of over three billion cubic feet. As
one of only three active helium salt caverns worldwide, the facility is
strategically developed to stabilize supply dynamics, allowing Linde to better
manage fluctuations in helium production and end-user demand, thereby
strengthening its supply chain resilience across key markets.
- In
June 2025, Helium One Global Ltd has announced a key milestone in its Galactica
Project, marking the successful completion of its 2025 development drilling
programme. The campaign delivered consistently strong results across all six
wells, significantly advancing the Galactica-Pegasus helium and CO₂ asset. The positive outcomes confirm
the field’s commercial production potential and position the project for near-term
monetization and strategic development.
- In
May 2025, Researchers at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) have
introduced a novel technique to precisely estimate helium abundance in the
Sun’s photosphere, addressing a long-standing observational limitation. By
analyzing spectral lines of magnesium (Mg), carbon (C), and their hydrogenated
molecular compounds, the method enables indirect yet accurate helium
measurements circumventing the absence of direct helium spectral signatures in
the solar photosphere.
- In
June 2024, Messer, the world’s largest privately held industrial gas company,
has officially completed the acquisition of the Federal Helium System from the U.S.
Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM). With the
transaction now finalized, Messer and the BLM will collaborate closely to
ensure a seamless operational handover and integration of the system into
Messer’s existing helium infrastructure.
- In
January 2024, The U.S. government has finalized the sale of the Federal Helium
Reserve, a vast underground storage facility located in Amarillo, Texas, which
has historically supplied up to 30% of the nation’s helium demand. This
divestment marks a significant shift in the domestic helium landscape,
transitioning a key strategic asset from public to private sector control.
Key Market Players
- Air
Products and Chemicals, Inc
- Linde PLC
- Air Liquide
- Messer SE & Co. KGaA
- TAIYO NIPPON SANSO CORPORATION
- MESA Specialty Gases & Equipment
- MATHESON Tri-Gas, Inc
- Iwatani Corporation
- Gazprom
- Gulfcryo
|
By
Phase
|
By
Application
|
By
End User
|
By
Region
|
|
|
- Breathing
Mixes
- Cryogenics
- Leak
Detection
- Pressurizing
& Puring
- Welding
- Controlled
Atmosphere
- Other
|
- Aerospace
& Defense
- Medical
& Healthcare
- Electronics
& Electrical
- Nuclear
Power
- Metal
Fabrication
- Other
|
- North
America
- Europe
- Asia
Pacific
- South
America
- Middle
East & Africa
|
Report Scope:
In this report, the Global Helium Market has been
segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends
which have also been detailed below:
o Gas
o Liquid
- Helium Market, By Application:
o Breathing Mixes
o Cryogenics
o Leak Detection
o Pressurizing & Puring
o Welding
o Controlled Atmosphere
o Other
- Helium Market, By End User:
o Aerospace & Defense
o Medical & Healthcare
o Electronics & Electrical
o Nuclear Power
o Metal Fabrication
o Other
- Helium Market, By Region:
o North America
§ United States
§ Canada
§ Mexico
o Europe
§ France
§ United Kingdom
§ Italy
§ Germany
§ Spain
o Asia-Pacific
§ China
§ India
§ Japan
§ Australia
§ South Korea
o South America
§ Brazil
§ Argentina
§ Colombia
o Middle East & Africa
§ South Africa
§ Saudi Arabia
§ UAE
Competitive Landscape
Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Global Helium
Market.
Available Customizations:
Global Helium market report with the given
market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's
specific needs. The following customization options are available for the
report:
Company Information
- Detailed analysis and profiling of additional
market players (up to five).
Global Helium Market
is an upcoming report to be released soon. If you wish an early delivery of
this report or want to confirm the date of release, please contact us at [email protected]