Helium is a rare and irreplaceable resource
The global helium market represents a substantial and rapidly expanding sector. The global helium market size was estimated at USD $5.19 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach over USD $7 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2025 to 2030.
This growth is driven by increasing technological demands and the irreplaceable nature of helium in many critical applications.
2024: $5.2B
2030: $7B+
global helium market
Although helium is the second most abundant element in the universe, it is exceptionally scarce on Earth. Unlike most industrial gases, it forms naturally over millions of years through radioactive decay and is found only in select underground gas reservoirs.
Helium cannot be manufactured – it can only be extracted from natural reservoirs.
Natural gas processing, where helium is separated from natural gas using cryogenic distillation, remains the primary method of helium production.Alternative methods include air separation and strategic reserve extraction. Though helium exists in trace amounts in the atmosphere (5.2 parts per million), atmospheric extraction is energy-intensive and economically viable only for specific applications, and while some countries maintain helium reserves extracted from depleted natural gas fields, these sources are finite and diminishing.
Critical applications driving demand for helium
Helium’s unique properties – including its inert nature, extremely low boiling point (-269°C), and ability to remain liquid at near absolute zero – make it indispensable across numerous sectors.
Healthcare and medical technology
- MRI machines require liquid helium to cool superconducting magnets
- Breathing mixtures for deep-sea diving and medical procedures
- Leak detection in medical device manufacturing
Technology and manufacturing
- Semiconductor manufacturing requires ultra-pure helium atmospheres
- Fiber optic cable production uses helium to prevent contamination
- Welding applications, particularly for aerospace and high-precision components
Scientific research
- Space programs use helium for rocket fuel systems and satellite operations
- Particle accelerators and quantum computing research facilities
- Cryogenic research applications requiring ultra-low temperatures
Commercial and industrial uses
- Gas chromatography in analytical laboratories
- Pressurising systems in aerospace and automotive industries
- Quality control testing through leak detection systems