Gaseous Helium market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Types (Grade A, Industrial-Grade Helium), By Applications (Welding, Leak Detection, Pressurizing and Purging, Aerostatics, Cryogenics, Others) , and Regional Insights and Forecast to 2035

Gaseous Helium market Size

The Global Gaseous Helium market size was USD 1.12 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 1.16 billion in 2026, USD 1.20 billion in 2027, and further grow to USD 1.54 billion by 2035, exhibiting a steady CAGR of 3.21% during the forecast period of 2026–2035. The market growth is driven by rising demand in cryogenics, semiconductors, aerospace, and healthcare, contributing nearly 60% of total consumption. Industrial applications account for about 40% of overall use, supported by technological advancements and improved helium recovery systems.

The US Gaseous Helium market represents nearly 32% of the global share, making it a dominant region in production and consumption. Around 38% of the nation’s helium usage stems from healthcare applications, particularly MRI systems, while 26% is utilized in semiconductor manufacturing. The aerospace and defense industries contribute about 20% of national demand, highlighting the region’s strong industrial dependency on helium-based processes. Furthermore, helium recovery initiatives are expanding by nearly 15% annually, improving supply sustainability and reducing extraction dependency.

Key Findings

• Market Size: The market reached USD 1.12 billion in 2025, USD 1.16 billion in 2026, and USD 1.54 billion by 2035, showing steady growth of 3.21%.
• Growth Drivers: Around 35% of growth comes from healthcare, 28% from semiconductors, and 20% from aerospace applications, showing diversified demand.
• Trends: Nearly 40% of firms adopt recycling systems, 30% focus on cryogenic advancements, and 25% invest in high-purity helium production globally.
• Key Players: Linde AG, Air Liquide SA, Gazprom, Exxon Mobil Corporation, Messer Group GmbH & more.
• Regional Insights: North America holds 36% of the global Gaseous Helium market share, driven by strong aerospace and healthcare demand. Europe follows with 28%, led by advanced research and manufacturing. Asia-Pacific accounts for 25%, supported by semiconductor and electronics growth, while the Middle East & Africa contribute 11% through rising helium extraction and exports.
• Challenges: Nearly 45% face supply limitations, 30% report cost fluctuations, and 15% note extraction difficulties impacting production efficiency.
• Industry Impact: Around 50% of sectors report improved efficiency, 25% benefit from helium recovery, and 20% gain from automation-based production systems.
• Recent Developments: 25% increase in new recovery facilities, 20% rise in collaborations, and 15% innovation in helium liquefaction systems globally.

The Gaseous Helium market continues to evolve with rising applications in high-tech industries, energy systems, and cryogenics research. Over 33% of global demand originates from technological sectors, while industrial gas applications contribute around 40%. Increased emphasis on sustainability and recycling has led to 28% of producers adopting helium recovery mechanisms, significantly reducing waste. With the global shift toward renewable energy, the market is also witnessing 22% higher utilization in cooling and quantum computing processes, reflecting a steady technological integration across the value chain.

Gaseous Helium market Trends

The Gaseous Helium market is witnessing significant expansion driven by the increasing use of helium in cryogenics, semiconductors, and healthcare applications. Approximately 35% of gaseous helium consumption is accounted for by the healthcare sector, primarily for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems, which depend heavily on helium for cooling superconducting magnets. The semiconductor industry contributes around 28% of the total helium demand due to its critical role in chip manufacturing and plasma etching processes.

Additionally, around 20% of gaseous helium is utilized in aerospace and defense for pressurizing and purging rocket systems, reflecting its importance in space exploration missions. Industrial leak detection applications hold roughly 10% of global usage, while scientific research and laboratory operations contribute about 7%. With helium extraction from natural gas reserves becoming increasingly limited, nearly 25% of the market now depends on recovery and recycling technologies to sustain supply. The market is also observing a 30% rise in helium demand across emerging economies due to growing industrialization and energy efficiency initiatives, indicating strong potential for continued expansion in the coming years.

Gaseous Helium market Dynamics

OPPORTUNITY

Expansion in semiconductor and cryogenic technologies

Around 28% of global gaseous helium demand originates from semiconductor manufacturing, and this figure is projected to increase as the global electronics industry expands by over 40%. Additionally, 35% of helium usage comes from cryogenics and medical imaging, particularly MRI systems, which are growing rapidly due to increased healthcare infrastructure investments across emerging economies. The market also sees a 22% rise in helium-based cooling systems across quantum computing and advanced research facilities, creating long-term growth opportunities for suppliers.

DRIVERS

Growing demand from space exploration and healthcare

Approximately 20% of gaseous helium demand is driven by aerospace and defense industries, particularly for rocket propulsion and cooling systems. With global satellite launches increasing by over 45%, helium’s role as a critical pressurizing gas is becoming more vital. In the healthcare sector, more than 35% of total helium usage is consumed for MRI cooling and other cryogenic applications. The expansion of medical imaging facilities worldwide and the technological advancements in superconductivity further boost the market’s momentum.

RESTRAINTS

"Helium supply scarcity and extraction limitations"

The global gaseous helium market faces constraints due to limited natural helium reserves. Nearly 85% of helium is extracted from natural gas fields, and declining production in key sources such as the U.S. and Qatar has tightened supply chains. Around 30% of market participants report production delays caused by extraction challenges and export restrictions. Furthermore, increasing dependence on helium recovery systems, which currently cover only 25% of industrial demand, highlights the vulnerability of the supply ecosystem and drives up operational costs for manufacturers.

CHALLENGE

"Rising costs and logistical inefficiencies"

Volatility in helium transportation and purification costs presents a major challenge for the gaseous helium market. Around 40% of global suppliers face logistical delays due to limited liquefaction facilities and transport constraints. The cost of distribution has surged by nearly 35%, impacting profitability across multiple sectors including healthcare and electronics. Additionally, dependency on a small number of global suppliers creates a 25% risk of supply disruption. These challenges collectively hinder market stability and emphasize the urgent need for enhanced production and recycling capabilities worldwide.

Segmentation Analysis

The Global Gaseous Helium market size was valued at USD 1.12 Billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 1.16 Billion in 2026, further advancing to USD 1.54 Billion by 2035, registering a CAGR of 3.21% during 2025–2035. Based on type, the market is segmented into Grade A and Industrial-Grade Helium, both serving distinct industrial and scientific purposes. By application, the market is categorized into Welding, Leak Detection, Pressurizing and Purging, Aerostatics, Cryogenics, and Others. The increasing integration of helium in semiconductor fabrication, space applications, and medical imaging drives growth across all segments, with Cryogenics and Industrial-Grade Helium showing notable expansion due to their high purity requirements and enhanced demand from advanced technologies.

By Type

Grade A

Grade A helium is primarily used in scientific research, aerospace testing, and cryogenic applications where ultra-high purity is essential. This type constitutes around 58% of the total gaseous helium consumption, supported by its application in MRI cooling and semiconductor manufacturing. Demand is projected to rise due to increasing adoption in precision instruments and high-tech facilities.

Grade A Helium held the largest share in the Gaseous Helium market, accounting for USD 0.65 Billion in 2025, representing 58% of the total market. This segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.6% from 2026 to 2035, driven by expanding cryogenic systems, advanced medical imaging, and semiconductor fabrication processes.

Industrial-Grade Helium

Industrial-Grade Helium is extensively used for welding, leak detection, and pressurizing applications across manufacturing and aerospace industries. It represents around 42% of the global demand and is favored for its reliability in harsh industrial environments and large-scale production applications, ensuring efficient operations.

Industrial-Grade Helium accounted for USD 0.47 Billion in 2025, holding a 42% share of the total market. This segment is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 2.8% from 2026 to 2035, supported by the rising use in industrial gas mixtures, precision welding, and high-performance engineering systems worldwide.

By Application

Welding

Helium is widely utilized in gas tungsten arc welding and gas metal arc welding for its superior heat transfer and inert properties. Approximately 18% of total helium consumption comes from welding processes, particularly in automotive and aerospace manufacturing, ensuring strong, oxidation-free joints.

Welding applications accounted for USD 0.20 Billion in 2025, representing 18% of the market share. This segment is projected to expand at a CAGR of 2.9% between 2026 and 2035, driven by increased demand for lightweight materials and growing industrial fabrication projects.

Leak Detection

Leak detection applications utilize helium due to its low molecular weight and high diffusivity, making it ideal for identifying micro-leaks in critical systems such as nuclear plants and refrigeration equipment. This segment contributes nearly 14% of total market usage and continues to grow due to strict safety standards in manufacturing.

Leak Detection held a market size of USD 0.16 Billion in 2025, with a 14% share. The segment is expected to witness a CAGR of 3.0% from 2026 to 2035, supported by industrial quality control processes and advanced leak detection systems integration.

Pressurizing and Purging

Helium is essential for purging and pressurizing rocket fuel systems, pipelines, and reactors due to its inert and non-reactive nature. The segment accounts for 20% of total helium utilization, primarily driven by aerospace, defense, and energy infrastructure developments.

Pressurizing and Purging accounted for USD 0.22 Billion in 2025, representing a 20% market share. It is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 3.4% through 2035, driven by advancements in space exploration, high-pressure testing, and industrial gas applications.

Aerostatics

Aerostatics, which includes balloons, blimps, and airships, use helium for its non-flammable characteristics. This segment holds approximately 12% of the total helium market, with growing demand from defense surveillance and commercial advertising applications.

Aerostatics recorded a market size of USD 0.13 Billion in 2025, accounting for 12% of the total share. This segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.7% between 2026 and 2035, supported by increased deployment of aerostat systems in military observation and environmental monitoring.

Cryogenics

Cryogenics remains one of the largest consumers of helium, representing around 28% of total demand. It is primarily used for cooling superconducting magnets in MRI systems, quantum research, and particle accelerators, highlighting its importance in scientific innovation and healthcare.

Cryogenics accounted for USD 0.31 Billion in 2025, representing 28% of the global share. The segment is forecasted to expand at a CAGR of 3.8% through 2035, driven by rapid advancements in superconductivity, quantum computing, and high-end research facilities.

Others

The “Others” segment covers laboratory testing, gas chromatography, and controlled atmospheres for specialized industrial applications. This category contributes about 8% of total market usage, with steady growth supported by innovation in chemical analysis and experimental research setups.

Other applications accounted for USD 0.09 Billion in 2025, holding an 8% share. This segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.5% between 2026 and 2035, driven by increasing utilization of helium in precision laboratory environments and advanced industrial testing systems.

Gaseous Helium market Regional Outlook

The Global Gaseous Helium market size was valued at USD 1.12 Billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 1.16 Billion in 2026, further advancing to USD 1.54 Billion by 2035, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.21% during 2026–2035. Regionally, North America leads the market with 36% share, followed by Europe with 28%, Asia-Pacific with 25%, and the Middle East & Africa with 11%. The growth pattern varies by region, driven by differing levels of technological adoption, industrialization, and helium extraction capacity. North America dominates due to strong aerospace and healthcare sectors, while Asia-Pacific showcases rapid growth in semiconductor and cryogenic applications.

North America

North America represents the largest market for gaseous helium, accounting for 36% of the global share. The region’s demand is largely driven by aerospace, defense, and medical imaging industries. Over 38% of helium consumption in this region comes from healthcare applications such as MRI systems, while 27% is utilized by the semiconductor and electronics industry. The presence of key helium refining plants and strong R&D investments enhances supply chain efficiency and supports sustainable market growth.

North America held the largest share in the Gaseous Helium market, accounting for USD 0.40 Billion in 2025, representing 36% of the total market. This region is expected to grow steadily, driven by expanding aerospace programs, semiconductor advancements, and increased demand for cryogenic cooling systems.

Europe

Europe holds around 28% of the global gaseous helium market share, driven by strong demand in research institutions, healthcare, and precision manufacturing industries. The region utilizes approximately 33% of its helium for cryogenic applications, particularly in MRI systems and superconductivity research. Furthermore, industrial sectors such as automotive welding and leak detection account for 24% of total demand, highlighting helium’s importance in maintaining product quality and operational safety.

Europe accounted for USD 0.31 Billion in 2025, representing 28% of the global share. The region continues to grow through technological innovation in energy storage, superconductivity, and scientific instrumentation that requires high-purity helium.

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific accounts for 25% of the global gaseous helium market, showcasing rapid growth due to expanding semiconductor manufacturing, electronics, and industrial gas industries. Around 30% of helium in the region is consumed by the electronics sector, while 26% supports cryogenic research and energy infrastructure. Strong industrial bases in emerging economies and increased R&D expenditure are major contributors to this region’s accelerating growth trajectory.

Asia-Pacific recorded USD 0.28 Billion in 2025, representing a 25% market share. The region’s expansion is fueled by surging demand for high-tech electronics, renewable energy projects, and advanced medical diagnostics across major developing nations.

Middle East & Africa

The Middle East & Africa region contributes around 11% of the global gaseous helium market. This growth is primarily supported by helium production facilities in Qatar and Algeria, accounting for nearly 70% of the region’s supply. Approximately 45% of the demand comes from industrial applications such as leak detection and gas pressurizing, while 22% is driven by healthcare systems’ adoption of helium-based technologies.

The Middle East & Africa market was valued at USD 0.12 Billion in 2025, holding an 11% share of the global total. This region is poised for gradual growth, supported by strategic extraction initiatives and increasing export capacity to global markets.

List of Key Gaseous Helium market Companies Profiled

Investment Analysis and Opportunities in Gaseous Helium market

Investment opportunities in the Gaseous Helium market are rapidly evolving, supported by technological advancements and growing industrial demand. Approximately 40% of new investments are directed toward helium recycling and recovery systems to address the global supply deficit. Around 30% of the funding focuses on the development of advanced cryogenic and liquefaction facilities, while 22% targets aerospace and semiconductor sectors due to their high helium consumption. Moreover, nearly 25% of regional governments have initiated strategic policies to expand helium extraction capabilities and diversify reserves. Investors are increasingly focusing on long-term partnerships with extraction firms, ensuring stable supply chains and sustainable energy development. The ongoing shift toward renewable energy and space technology is anticipated to create additional investment opportunities across the next decade.

New Products Development

The Gaseous Helium market is witnessing a surge in product development, with manufacturers emphasizing innovation to enhance purity, efficiency, and sustainability. About 35% of companies are investing in helium recovery systems that reduce waste by up to 50%, improving overall process efficiency. Around 28% of new developments target ultra-high-purity helium for semiconductor and quantum computing applications. Additionally, 20% of producers are focusing on advanced packaging and storage systems that extend gas shelf life and optimize transportation safety. Over 15% of innovations are oriented toward eco-friendly refining processes to reduce carbon emissions during extraction. The increasing adoption of automation and IoT-enabled control systems in production facilities further supports quality assurance and global supply continuity.

Developments

• Linde AG: Launched a new helium purification and liquefaction plant with a 25% higher processing efficiency, enabling faster delivery for semiconductor and medical imaging clients.
• Air Liquide SA: Introduced an automated helium recycling unit capable of reclaiming 45% of helium used in cryogenic research laboratories to support sustainability initiatives.
• Gazprom: Expanded its helium production infrastructure by 30%, adding a new facility for liquid helium extraction to strengthen its global export capabilities.
• Exxon Mobil Corporation: Upgraded its helium recovery systems, resulting in a 20% improvement in operational efficiency and reduced environmental emissions across multiple plants.
• Messer Group GmbH: Partnered with industrial clients to develop advanced helium supply chains, cutting transportation costs by nearly 18% while enhancing delivery reliability worldwide.

Report Coverage

The Gaseous Helium market report provides an extensive evaluation of industry performance, covering production, consumption, trade analysis, and market dynamics across key regions. It integrates a comprehensive SWOT analysis, revealing that approximately 45% of the market’s strength lies in its expanding applications in healthcare, aerospace, and cryogenics. Weaknesses, accounting for about 25%, stem from limited natural reserves and high extraction costs. Opportunities make up nearly 20%, driven by helium recycling, new extraction technologies, and growing semiconductor demand. However, 10% of the market faces threats from supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions affecting gas exports.

The report further includes segmental breakdowns by type, application, and region, identifying high-growth pockets and competitive landscapes. Around 60% of manufacturers are prioritizing helium recovery technology, and 40% are investing in digital monitoring for gas quality control. The analysis also outlines regulatory frameworks, technological innovations, and strategic alliances shaping the market, offering valuable insights for investors and stakeholders aiming to strengthen their market position and ensure sustainable helium supply stability.