Canada poised to fill global helium shortfall as Middle East supplies wane

Helium demand is climbing sharply, driven by its essential role in MRI machines, rocket components and especially advanced computer chips that power the artificial‑intelligence sector. Experts estimate that 10‑15% of global helium consumption now supports chip manufacturing, a share that is rising quickly.

Middle‑East production has been hit by the war that began after the U.S. and Israel launched operations against Iran, with Iranian attacks on key infrastructure in Qatar and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz curtailing shipments. The disruption could take three to five years to repair, and additional cuts from Russian export controls and Ukrainian attacks on Russian energy assets further tighten supply. In this context, Avanti Helium Corp. of Calgary received an inquiry from a Middle‑East customer, highlighting Canada’s untapped helium reserves. Industry leaders say Canada could help close the gap, but the lack of supportive government policies and incentives hampers rapid development and export.