QatarEnergy has inked a landmark 20-year sales and purchase agreement (SPA) with Guangzhou Guanggang Gases & Energy Co. Ltd (G-gas), a prominent Chinese industrial gases company. The agreement, signed on February 25, will see QatarEnergy supply 100 million cubic feet per annum of high-purity helium to China, marking the first direct, long-term SPA of its kind between the two entities.

The helium, sourced from Qatar’s state-of-the-art helium facilities in Ras Laffan, will cater to the burgeoning demand for this critical element within China’s rapidly expanding industrial and technological sectors.

H.E. Minister Al-Kaabi emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, “China is a major market and destination for Qatari helium, and we are very pleased to enter into this direct long-term partnership with G-gas as we help meet the growing demand for helium both in China and across the globe.” He further highlighted Qatar’s position as one of the world’s largest helium exporters, noting that the agreement expands QatarEnergy’s global customer base.

The long-term nature of the SPA provides G-gas with a stable and reliable supply of helium, a vital component in numerous high-tech and industrial applications. Helium is indispensable in sectors such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners, semiconductor manufacturing, specialized welding, deep-sea diving, and space exploration. The consistent supply from Qatar is expected to bolster China's technological advancements and industrial capabilities.

Moreover, H.E. Minister Al-Kaabi revealed that QatarEnergy’s helium capacity is set to more than double with the ongoing North Field LNG expansion projects. This expansion will significantly enhance Qatar’s ability to meet the increasing global demand for helium, supporting a wide array of industries that rely on this critical resource.

G-gas, with its 50-year history in the industrial gases sector, specializes in the design and operation of air separation units, gas storage and distribution facilities, and gas application solutions. The company's expertise and robust infrastructure make it a key player in China's industrial gas market, ensuring the efficient distribution and utilization of the supplied helium.

The agreement reflects the strategic importance of helium in today’s technologically advanced world. As a rare and non-renewable resource, securing a stable supply is crucial for nations driving innovation and development. QatarEnergy’s commitment to expanding its helium capacity and forging long-term partnerships with key players like G-gas solidifies its role as a vital contributor to the global helium market, ensuring the continued availability of this essential element for critical applications worldwide. This deal further strengthens the economic ties between Qatar and China, promoting mutual growth and development within the energy sector.