UPDATE: Russia may discuss Gazprom’s internal gas price discounts

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MOSCOW, Dec 8 (PRIME) -- Russia’s Energy Ministry thinks it is reasonable to resume discussion of gas giant Gazprom’s ability to sell natural gas locally with a discount to the price set by the Federal Tariff Service, Deputy Minister Kirill Molodtsov said at a forum Tuesday.

“Taking into account the development of competition at the internal gas market, we think it is reasonable to return to discussion of Gazprom’s ability to sell gas with a discount to the wholesale price,” he said.

“The decision combined with a simultaneous work on improvement of tariff regulations for transportation and storage of gas will stimulate gas production.”

But the Federal Antimonopoly Service objected. “We do not support such initiatives. Such a problem should be solved by establishment of equal conditions for Gazprom and a ‘de-regulation’ of Gazprom in the sphere,” Deputy Director Anatoly Golomolzin said.

The gas giant can sell gas at an exchange, where it the main supplier, making it equal to independent gas producers, Golomolzin added.

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