Leading Neon Producers (2022): Ukraine, Russia, China Dominate

Global Neon Production Estimates (2022)

1. Ukraine – 1,950–2,200 metric tons (61–68% of world output)
2. Russia – 970–1,100 metric tons (30–34%)
3. China – 100–250 metric tons (3–8%)

Total World Production: ~3,200–3,600 metric tons

Critical Context

• Neon is a byproduct of steelmaking (air separation units).
• Ukraine's dominance (Iceblick, Ingas, Cryoin) made it critical for semiconductor lithography (excimer lasers).
• 2022 Russian invasion severely disrupted Ukrainian output, causing global neon shortage/price spikes.
• Russia's production also faces sanctions/logistics issues.
• China expanding capacity but not yet at scale.