Ameria consulting company conducted a survey in food production, including beverage and cigarette output. According to the survey, 49% of the products were manufactured in Yerevan, 13% - in Ararat province, 13% - in Kotayk province, 8% - in Shirak province, 4% - in Lori province, 3% - in Aragatsotn and Armavir provinces, 2% - in Gegharkunik, Syunik, Vayots Dzor provinces, and only 1% - in Tavush province.

As the survey revealed, food production plays a significant role in the country’s processing industry, with food output totaling 36%, beverage and cigarette output grossing 14% and 4% respectively in 2012.

Ameria experts forecast 19% growth of food output volume by 2015 as compared with 2012, with 46% and 27% growth to be reported in beverage and cigarette production respectively.

As the development director at Ameria Tigran Jrbashyan noted during the April 10 survey presentation in Yerevan, the processing industry has a major potential in terms of export, import as well as production of import-replacement products. As he noted, the volume of the processing industry market is accessed at $1 billion, with Armenia as the regional leader in manufacturing sector.

The expert pointed out production of cigarettes and beverages as the most prospective sector, with 25% of Armenia-manufactured cigarettes exported to Iraq, 17% to Russia, and 19% to EU states.

Also, joining the free trade agreement with the EU will open up new possibilities for Armenian manufacturers, with entering Georgian market among the priorities on medium and small businesses’ agenda, the expert said.