Royal Dutch Shell plc, the undisputed global leader of natural gas trading, reported a shortfall in sales and volumes during the second quarter, but many maintenance-related issues are expected to be resolved within weeks.

Shell’s Integrated Gas business, which includes the estimable liquefied natural gas (LNG) arm, long has been a standout performer. However, in recent quarters activity has slowed. Compared to some of the strong quarters in 2019 and 2020, it was a “soft quarter,” even with strong gas prices, CFO Jessica Uhl said. 

Uhl shared a microphone on Thursday with CEO Ben van Beurden to discuss quarterly results. 

Overall, global oil and gas production decreased by 3% sequentially mainly because of higher maintenance activities and field decline, partly offset...