economy

It's not just oil

Updated on: March 31, 2026 / 7:39 PM EDT / CBS News

It's not just oil

TL;DR

  • Iran conflict is causing global shortages of helium and aluminum, impacting more than just energy markets.
  • Qatar's helium production has stopped due to Iranian strikes on LNG facilities, threatening supplies crucial for semiconductors and medical equipment.
  • Helium is essential for cooling in chip manufacturing and MRI machines; its shortage could hinder electronics production.
  • Aluminum prices have reached a four-year high due to regional disruptions and rising energy costs, impacting packaging and automotive industries.
  • Manufacturers have limited helium reserves, and shortages are already being communicated to U.S. customers, leading to expected price hikes and production delays.
  • A prolonged conflict could also lead to shortages of nitrogen, further increasing food and packaging costs.