Russian gas producers have resumed the growth of their output in the first half of this year after a slowdown last year, despite the continuing contraction of the country’s economy.

According to preliminary data from state-run agency CDU TEK, gas producers in the country other than state-run monopoly Gazprom increased their output by almost 11% to 109 billion cubic metres.

Novatek has strengthened its leading position among independents, with production increasing by almost 8% to more than 33 Bcm in the period between January and June.

Meanwhile,