Armenia, UAE discuss fresh produce exports

PanARMENIAN.Net - On July 16, Arman Khojoyan, Armenia's Deputy Minister of Economy, met with representatives of a business delegation from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to discuss opportunities for exporting fresh vegetables and flowers from Armenia to the UAE market. The sides also reviewed issues related to organizing export operations, logistics routes, and phytosanitary requirements.

Khojoyan presented the Armenian government's key export promotion policies, emphasizing the importance of expanding cooperation with the Gulf countries and highlighting the export potential of Armenian fresh vegetables and flowers.

He also outlined the capabilities of Armenia's greenhouse sector, the range of fresh vegetables and flowers produced in the country, their quality advantages, and export prospects. During the meeting, participants also proposed exploring the possibility of exporting Armenian mineral water to the UAE.

The discussions were attended by representatives of companies engaged in flower and fresh vegetable production, as well as logistics service providers.

The participating companies presented their core activities, product portfolios, export experience, and potential areas for cooperation. They also discussed supply chain organization and meeting market requirements.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the parties agreed to continue their cooperation, maintain business contacts, and develop further practical steps through ongoing information exchange to strengthen trade and economic relations between Armenia and the United Arab Emirates.

To assess opportunities for practical cooperation on site, on July 17 Deputy Minister Arman Khojoyan, UAE Ambassador to Armenia Nariman Al Mulla, and members of the business delegation visited several greenhouse facilities. They reviewed production and export capacities, as well as packaging, cold storage, and logistics infrastructure.

Russia has imposed restrictions on imports of a range of Armenian products. These include bans on imports of Jermuk mineral water, flowers, and certain alcoholic beverages, as well as restrictions on several agricultural products, including tomatoes, cucumbers, and strawberries. Since June 2, Russia has also restricted imports and transit through other Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) member states of Armenian cherries, apricots, peaches, plums, grapes, and other stone fruits. Since June 3, restrictions have additionally been applied to imports of eggplants, potatoes, and dried fruits originating from Armenia.