Black-empowered diversified resources group Exxaro Resources on Thursday declared an interim dividend on posting a 40% increase in earnings before interest tax depreciation and amortisation of R3.9-billion for the six months to June 30. In the face of global trade tensions, a challenging local economy and declining thermal coal pricing, the consolidated half-year revenue of the JSE-listed company, headed by CEO Mxolisi Mgojo, was up 18% on the corresponding period of last year to R14-billion.