The global semiconductor industry is seeing a shift towards domestic chip production as countries aim to reduce dependence on foreign manufacturers. Recent policy initiatives such as the US Chips Act and the EU Chips Act are aimed at bolstering national technological sovereignty. However, this push for domestic production is expected to have significant consequences for helium supply and demand.
Helium is a critical element in semiconductor manufacturing due to its unique properties, particularly in cooling applications where no viable alternatives exist. As countries increase their domestic chip manufacturing capabilities, the demand for helium is projected to surge, raising concerns about the sustainability of supply chains and market volatility.
A report by IDTechEx predicts that global helium demand for semiconductor manufacturing will increase more than five-fold by 2035, with the US alone expected to quadruple its demand over the next decade. This surge in demand for helium could lead to challenges in meeting supply needs and potential market instability.
Overall, the shift towards domestic semiconductor production is expected to have wide-reaching impacts on the semiconductor industry and the helium market. It will be important for stakeholders to closely monitor developments and implement strategies to ensure a stable and sustainable supply chain for helium in the semiconductor manufacturing sector.
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