Production has come to a standstill following a drone attack on a helium complex in Qatar. This could be disastrous for the semiconductor industry.
A drone attack on a major helium complex in Qatar has shut down approximately 30 percent of global helium production. This could potentially have consequences for the global semiconductor industry.
Helium crucial for chip production
The complex has been offline since March 2 following Iranian drone attacks. Production reportedly still hasn’t resumed nine days later. Helium is an essential raw material for the semiconductor industry. The gas is used, among other things, to cool silicon wafers during chip fabrication, a process for which no full-fledged alternative currently exists.
South Korea appears particularly vulnerable, writes Tom’s Hardware. According to the Korea International Trade Association, 64.7 percent of the country’s helium came from Qatar in 2025. The South Korean government is therefore now investigating the availability of fourteen critical materials and equipment for the chip sector. In addition to helium, bromine—a chemical used in circuit formation—is also a potential risk factor. Approximately 90 percent of South Korean bromine imports come from Israel, which is also involved in the conflict.
Chip companies monitor situation
Semiconductor manufacturer SK hynix stated that it has since diversified its helium supply and built up sufficient stock. TSMC also sees no immediate impact on its operations, although the company continues to monitor the situation closely.