MOSCOW, June 2. /TASS/. The restriction of inert gases export will strengthen Russian positions on the global microelectronics market, Deputy Minister of Industry Vasily Shpak told TASS.

Russia restricted exports of inert gases, including neon, to unfriendly states in late May. Such gases comprise in particular argon and helium used in production of semiconductors.

"We have sufficient capabilities, we are present on this market. We also plan to increase production capacities in the near future. We believe we will have an opportunity of being heard in this global chain and this will provide us with certain competitive advantages, if there is a need for mutually beneficial talks with colleagues," the official said.

Inert gases are among base materials for production of semiconductors, Shpak said.

"About 4,000 various materials and chemicals are used to produce semiconductors, speaking about the process. However, there are basic things present with actually all the producers in the process - in particular, these are high-purity gases, especially neon," he noted.

The crisis with semiconductors started long before the pandemic and the decision on inert gases export restrictions "will enable chains turned out to be disrupted for the time being in a new fashion," the official added.