Salient Helium Statistics

This table presents key data on helium consumption, exports, imports, and total sales of U.S.-produced helium over a five-year period from 2019 to 2023, measured in million cubic meters. This information is critical for understanding the supply and demand dynamics of helium, a nonrenewable resource essential for various industrial applications including medical imaging, electronics manufacturing, and scientific research. Tracking these statistics helps policymakers and industry stakeholders monitor market trends, manage strategic reserves, and ensure a stable supply of helium for both domestic use and international trade.

Analysis of the data reveals that apparent helium consumption in the United States has generally increased, rising from an estimated 45 million cubic meters in 2019 to 56 million cubic meters in 2023, indicating growing domestic demand. Exports, however, have declined sharply from 57.8 million cubic meters in 2019 to 33.2 million cubic meters in 2023, reflecting a significant reduction in helium available for international markets. Imports have fluctuated slightly but show an upward trend, increasing from 6.8 million cubic meters in 2019 to 8 million cubic meters in 2023, which may suggest efforts to supplement domestic supply. Total sales of U.S.-produced helium decreased from 86.2 million cubic meters in 2019 to a low of 75.9 million cubic meters in 2021 but have since rebounded to 81.2 million cubic meters in 2023, indicating a recovery in production and market activity.