Messer, the world's largest privately held industrial gases company, has secured a long-term contract with QatarEnergy for the annual supply of 100 million cubic feet of high-purity helium from its Ras Laffan facilities.
In a significant move to secure its global supply chain, Messer, the world's largest privately held industrial gases company, has signed a landmark long-term sales and purchase agreement (SPA) with QatarEnergy for the annual supply of 100 million cubic feet of high-purity helium. The deal, announced on September 29, 2025, marks the first direct long-term partnership between the two major global players, promising enhanced reliability of this crucial rare gas for Messer's worldwide customer base.
The high-purity helium will be sourced from QatarEnergy's state-of-the-art facilities in Ras Laffan, a major hub for one of the world's largest helium producers. By formalizing this direct supply channel, Messer is strategically diversifying its sources, a vital step in mitigating the volatility often seen in the global helium market.
The signing ceremony in Doha featured senior leaders from both companies, underscoring the strategic importance of the collaboration. His Excellency Mr. Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, President and CEO of QatarEnergy, welcomed the agreement, stating, "Messer is a leading global supplier of helium with a strong reputation and diverse assets. We are delighted to enter into our first direct supply agreement with Messer and to continue providing high-quality helium to the world through reliable partners."
Qatar is a powerhouse in global helium production, with QatarEnergy estimating that the helium available from its vast North Field gas reservoir could be sufficient to meet global demand for the next 30 years. When the state-owned energy giant's two helium plants operate at full capacity, it is expected to supply approximately 25% of the world’s total helium output, highlighting the sheer scale and importance of this new partnership.
Helium's unique properties—including its extremely low boiling point and inert nature—make it irreplaceable in a host of advanced and fast-growing industries. It is an essential building block for critical applications such as medical imaging (MRI scanners), semiconductor manufacturing (where it provides a protective, inert atmosphere), quantum computing, fiber optics production, and space exploration (used to pressurize rocket fuels).
Bernd Eulitz, Global CEO of Messer SE & Co. KGaA, emphasized the customer-centric benefit of the deal. "Through this agreement, Messer's customers will gain greater confidence in consistent, high-quality supply to power their business and innovations," said Eulitz. He added that the deal reinforces Messer's commitment to ensuring the secure and reliable delivery of the helium customers need for their long-term growth.
