The U.S. is overtaking Russia as the world's largest producer of natural gas. The Energy Information Administration reported that from January to July America produced 17.44 trillion Btu, or 493.8 billion cubic meters. According to the Ministry of Energy, Russia's output was 383.55 billion cubic meters over the same period. Since 2008, the U.S. has shrunk gas imports by 32 percent, and crude oil shipments have been reduced by 15 percent due to preference for national resources. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates an increase of production of petroleum and natural gas hydrocarbons to 11.4 million barrels a day. The International Energy Agency says the U.S. is surpassing Russia in gas production. In expert opinion, in 2035 Russia will produce 784 billion cubic meters, and the U.S., 821 cubic meters. The third place will belong to China, where the output of blue fuel would rise almost five times. British Petroleum expresses a similar view, forecasting the U.S. to become a leader in the production of hydrocarbons and biofuel in 2013, outproducing Russia and Saudi Arabia. According to BP, from 2013 to 2023, Russia would be in the second place, and then Saudi Arabia would replace it. Gazprom's production is growing on the back of strong demand in Europe and near-abroad countries. However, Saudi Arabia participated in Europe's natural gas tender, and the EU is very likely to change a provider.