A series of data released from Uzbekistan showed that natural gas output decreased by 9.6% YoY in H1 2023, while electricity output increased by 4.3% YoY. Meanwhile, the authorities have continued planned electricity shutdowns in the capital this week, citing repair work. Similar blackouts occurred last year in November and December. Meanwhile, the statistics agency also reported that the external trade deficit widened by another USD 200 mln to approximately USD 4.9 bln in the same period, attributing this to rising energy imports.