[ Jiayuan Rare Gas Monthly Review ] : Helium Rose Steadily in April, Expected to Fluctuate Upward in May (April 2026)

1. Market Analysis

The monthly average price of bottled helium increased during this period. Geopolitical risks in the Middle East continued with no clear signs of improvement. Under Russia’s helium export controls, the supply shortage in China’s helium market intensified, leading to rapidly rising market prices, with transactions concentrated on the higher end. In April, bottled helium sales went relatively smoothly – channels actively took delivery in the first half of the month, while some channels began to release partial stock for profit in the second half, resulting in active market trading sentiment and an upward shift in the transaction center of gravity. The supply shortage persisted in the East China region, where channels were mostly reluctant to sell, making it somewhat difficult for downstream users to source product. The Southwest region also actively followed the price uptrend.

The average price of both imported and domestic tube‑trailer high‑purity helium increased during this period. Due to uncertainty over the magnitude and duration of supply tightening, many players actively built inventories, and market supply gradually moved toward a tight situation. Imported helium led the price increase, with domestic helium actively following suit, leading to rapid price gains. According to statistics as of April 28, both the monthly average price of imported tube‑trailer high‑purity helium and that of domestic tube‑trailer high‑purity helium rose. Market trading sentiment was good, and enterprises mainly focused on active shipment.

Xenon market prices were stable, but the transaction center of gravity moved downward, and the monthly average price declined, remaining flat month‑on‑month. The oversupply situation in the xenon market has not yet changed, with major producers holding high inventories, leading to an obvious decline in market prices.

Krypton market prices were stable, but the transaction center of gravity moved downward. Downstream buying interest was mediocre, and enterprises mainly sold at low prices.

Neon market prices were stable, but the transaction center of gravity moved downward. With ample channel inventory in the neon market, trading sentiment was relatively poor, and prices remained stable at low levels.

2. Market Outlook

Helium market prices are expected to increase in May 2026. The impact of the Middle East conflict is expected to persist in May. Russian helium export controls are expected to see some easing. The market is anticipated to show a trend of initially falling and then rising. Domestic tube‑trailer helium prices are expected to rise. The overall supply tightening situation in the market is unlikely to improve. The anticipated easing of Russian controls in the short term can only alleviate the supply tightness to some extent, but it will hardly reverse the overall situation. As supply tightness evolves, the market is expected to return to its main upward trend.

Xenon market prices are expected to decline further in May, due to weak downstream buying support.

China krypton market prices still have room to decline in May, as enterprises face increasing delivery pressure amid high channel inventories.

Neon market prices are expected to decline in May. In the short term, market trading sentiment is relatively weak.

3. Business Contact

Changzhou Jiayuan Chemical Co., Ltd. focuses on the fluorine chemical sector and has built a complete industrial chain ranging from fluorite to high‑purity hydrogen fluoride, electronic grade hydrofluoric acid, chlorotrifluoroethylene, octafluorocyclobutane, inorganic fluoride salt series, boron‑10 acid, and electronic specialty gases, all the way downstream to high‑end fluorinated fluids (such as HFE449). 

The company also supplies high‑purity rare gases, with product purity levels that meet the stringent requirements of different customers. In the face of the current tight helium market and continuously rising prices, we provide you with reliable gas supply services backed by stable sourcing channels and ample inventory. Welcome both existing and new customers to call for inquiries and purchasing discussions.