U.S. imports of rare gases other than argon (helium, neon, krypton, xenon & others) (HS 280429) totaled $13.3M in April 2026, traded with 21 countries.
Neon's critical role in excimer lasers used in semiconductor lithography has elevated this heading's strategic importance well beyond its modest trade volume, while helium (2804290010) underpins cryogenic cooling for MRI machines and superconducting research. The US schedule further distinguishes isotopically pure rare gases at purity of 99% or greater (2804290030) from commercial-grade neon (2804290020) and residual other rare gases (2804290050, 2804290055), reflecting the premium pricing and specialized end-uses of ultra-high-purity material. Canada and Qatar are the primary foreign sources, with China and Germany also significant contributors.
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The heading is subdivided into helium (2804290010), neon (2804290020), isotopically pure rare gases at purity of 99% or greater (2804290030), and two residual 'other rare gases' lines (2804290050 and 2804290055). Correct classification depends on the specific gas identity and purity level.
Canada and Qatar rank as the top two suppliers under this heading, followed by China and Germany. Portugal also appears among notable sources. Supply concentration for specific gases like neon can shift significantly with geopolitical events affecting production regions.
Supplier Network
Get discovered by U.S. importers searching for HS 280429 โ Rare Gases Other Than Argon (Helium, Neon, Krypton, Xenon & Others). Be the first supplier listed.
Exports
$91.6M
Imports
$13.3M
from 21 countries ยท YTD: $60.5M
Surplus of $78.3M (net exporter)
Trade balance: surplus of $78.3M (net exporter)
YTD: $60.5M imported (April 2026)
172 shipments/month
Monthly import values over time
URANIUM ENRICHED IN U235 ETC. PLUTONIUM ETC.
HS 284420
NATURAL URANIUM & COMPOUNDS, ALLOYS & CERAMICS ETC
HS 284410
ANHYDROUS AMMONIA
HS 281410
ALLOYS, DISPERSIONS,ISOTOPES & COMPOUNDS NES
HS 284443
ALUMINUM OXIDE, EXCEPT ARTIFICIAL CORUNDUM, NESOI
HS 281820
SULFURIC ACID; OLEUM
HS 280700
Top U.S. entry points for this product, ranked by latest-month import value.