Armenia’s authorities consider ways of expanding food import to Russia

The Armenian authorities are considering the possibility of expanding the export of its agricultural products to Russia. Deputy Prime Minister Ovik Abramian discussed the issue at a special meeting with the chiefs of the country’s leading food manufacturers.
“Greater import of Armenian food products to other countries, including the Russian market, will give a powerful impetus to the national economy,” Abramian said. “The government is prepared, within its capabilities, to promote the implementation of various export programs.”
He called for studying the production potential, resources and export capabilities of Armenia’s enterprises within a week’s time. He also confirmed that he was looking forward to specific proposals from businesses.
Agriculture Minister Sergo Krapetian recalled that “traditionally about 70% of Armenia’s farm produce is exported to Russia.”
“However, now that the Russian government has imposed bans on the import of products of farming from a number of countries, we should take advantage of this window of opportunity in the Russian market to build up export within tight deadlines.”
Karapetian believes that Armenia has vast opportunities for this. He explained he was referring to fresh vegetables and fruit, value added farming products, wines and brandies. He believes that Armenia may double its farming export to Russia.