EU Prepares Trade Benefits for Armenia in Response to Russian Import Restrictions

The European Commission is drawing up emergency measures to support Armenia's economy after Russia imposed restrictions on imports of Armenian goods. According to sources, the plan includes reducing tariffs on most of the roughly 20 product categories that Russia has banned. The proposals could be formally presented within weeks and require approval from a majority of EU member states.

However, sources note potential challenges. Increased imports of Armenian cognac could displease French producers. Additionally, logistics for perishable goods are complicated due to Armenia's lack of sea access.

Russia-Armenia relations soured ahead of Armenia's parliamentary elections. Moscow accuses Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of pursuing a pro-Western course. In response to Yerevan's rapprochement with Europe, Russia imposed restrictions on Armenian products including flowers, mineral water, vegetables, herbs, peaches, strawberries, apples, and fish.

Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan are demanding a referendum in Armenia on membership in the Eurasian Economic Union. Pashinyan has refused to hold a referendum. On election day, June 7, the prime minister stated that the EU market could open for Armenian agricultural products without customs duties.