Representatives of Armenia's fish farming sector staged a protest outside the government building, arguing that current state measures have failed to address the industry's export difficulties.

The chairman of the Armenian Fish Farmers Union, Gor Grigoryan, said producers are expecting practical support rather than what he described as ineffective initiatives.

“Two programs have already been implemented, but they are unrealistic and will not produce any positive effect for the sector,” he said, according to http://Panorama.am .

The protesters requested a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Khachatryan, while declining another meeting with the economy minister, saying they had already discussed the issue with him.

Grigoryan argued that the government's decisions are largely formal and create the impression that the problem is being addressed, despite the absence of tangible results.

He added that neither the procedures introduced for exports to Europe nor export subsidy mechanisms have resolved the industry's main challenge, noting that around 15,000 tonnes of live fish remain affected.

According to the union, the government should provide temporary financial assistance until export issues are settled, after which the funds could be repaid to the state budget.

Meanwhile, Armenia's Ministry of Economy announced that it will hold an online information session for fish and fish-product producers to explain the procedures established by the government for exporting to the European Union.

The ministry said participants will receive guidance on obtaining EU export authorization, submitting and evaluating applications, opening an account in the TRACES NT system, issuing health certificates, and fulfilling the main obligations required of exporters.

The online event is scheduled for July 24 at 10:30 a.m.

Armenia has approved the registration procedure for the TRACES system, which is required for exports of fish and fish products to EU member states. The Food Safety Inspectorate has stated that TRACES (Trade Control and Expert System) registration is now valid indefinitely.

According to Food Safety Inspectorate head Tigran Petrosyan, about 97% of Armenia's fish farming industry is ready to export to the European Union, and one company has already submitted an official application to begin exports.