[Rare Gases Monthly Review]: Imported Helium Prices Drop Significantly, Krypton and Xenon Prices Remain Low (February 2026)

📊1. Market Overview

Helium market

Overall trend : Market prices are trending downwards.

Bottled helium : The average monthly price in February decreased month-on-month, market trading was generally weak, and the average transaction price shifted downwards. Performance varied across regions; East China saw good sales due to tight supply, while Southwest China experienced relatively lackluster performance.

Tube helium : Both imported and domestic tube helium prices are on a downward trend. Before the Spring Festival, domestic helium prices dropped significantly due to transportation restrictions; imported helium prices also decreased due to pressure on distributors to move inventory. Overall, imported helium prices have fallen more rapidly, while domestic helium shipments have remained relatively stable.

Rare gas market (xenon, krypton, neon)

Xenon : The average market price declined. The main reason is that major manufacturers have high inventory levels, and under pressure to ship at the end of the year, market prices have fallen, with some transactions occurring at lower prices.

Krypton : The average market price remained stable. However, the transaction focus shifted downwards, the market trading atmosphere was sluggish, and companies mainly focused on selling at low prices.

Neon : The average market price remained stable. Ample inventory in market channels led to a sluggish trading atmosphere, and prices remained stable at low levels.

📊2. Market Outlook (March 2026)

Helium market

Price forecast : Market prices are expected to continue to decline.

Supply side : Supply is expected to increase and become ample. On the one hand, domestic helium plants are gradually resuming production, with output expected to rise; on the other hand, gas production in Russia, Qatar, and other regions is stable, and imports are sufficient.

On the demand side : After the Spring Festival, downstream demand is gradually increasing, providing some support to the market.

Overall assessment : Although demand is supported, the oversupply situation in the market is unlikely to improve in the short term, and some high-priced goods are expected to face downward pressure.

Rare gas market (xenon, krypton, neon)

Xenon : Prices are expected to decline further, mainly due to weak downstream demand.

Krypton : Prices are expected to continue their downward trend. This is mainly due to high channel inventory levels and increased pressure on companies to move inventory.

Neon : Prices are expected to decline. This is mainly due to sluggish market activity and downward pressure on sales, leaving room for further price reductions.