China blocks exports of helium, key for chipmaking, as Iran war squeezes supply

(The Associated Press/Al Arabiya) China on Friday said it is temporarily blocking the export of helium, a key element for chipmaking, as the Iran war’s escalation adds to global supply disruptions. China’s commerce ministry and its customs agency said in a brief statement that they are imposing a temporary export ban on helium, effective immediately, in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Foreign Trade Law of the People’s Republic of China. – China blocks exports of helium, key for chipmaking, as Iran war squeezes supply