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Chipmakers in Malaysia monitoring risks from helium supply disruptions, association says
Reuters· 2026-03-18 03:43
Group 1 - Semiconductor firms in Malaysia are monitoring risks from helium supply disruptions due to the conflict in the Middle East, although there have been no operational interruptions reported so far [1][1][1] - Helium prices have increased sharply due to disruptions in natural gas processing in Qatar, which is linked to the U.S.-Israel war against Iran, affecting global supplies critical for industries like semiconductors and medical imaging [1][1][1] - The president of the Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association stated that most global chipmakers, including those in Malaysia, have inventories and diversified sourcing to mitigate immediate risks [1][1][1] Group 2 - Malaysian chipmakers are managing risks through diversified sourcing, inventory buffers, and supply chain engagement, similar to their regional peers [1][1][1] - Companies focused on packaging, testing, and assembly in Malaysia are less exposed to helium supply risks and can operate primarily with nitrogen [1][1][1] - Malaysia accounts for about 7% of the world's semiconductor trade and approximately 13% of global chip assembly, testing, and packaging [1][1][1] Group 3 - Fitch Ratings indicated that Asia's semiconductor supply chain faces rising risks from helium supply strains as the conflict in Iran continues, with potential credit risk worsening if shortages exceed inventory buffers [1][1][1]