EU Commissioner Kos promotes Armenian products after trade measures adopted

European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos has promoted Armenian products on social media after the EU Council formally adopted temporary trade-liberalization measures.

“We took the decision to open our market to almost 80% of Armenian products, from apricots and cherries to tomatoes and cut flowers,” she said on Instagram.

“We want to give Armenian farmers and producers new opportunities after Russia restricted access to its market following Armenia’s democratic choice to move closer to Europe. One of the products is also the famous Armenian lavash bread. Last year, I visited a traditional bakery and saw how it is made. It is delicious. Next time you do your weekly shopping, look out for Armenian products. A small choice in your shopping basket can help Armenian farmers and producers, and support the Armenian people’s right to choose their own future.”

Kos posted photos from her trip to an Armenian bakery where she tried the lavash.

The Council of the EU formally adopted temporary trade-liberalization measures on September 24 for Armenian products to support Armenia's economy following trade restrictions recently imposed by Russia.

These measures will liberalize around 80% of Armenian exports to the EU, suspending import duties on a broad range of products, including certain agricultural goods, the Council of the EU said in a press release.

This temporary preferential arrangement will apply for a period of two years.

These temporary measures will contribute to supporting and strengthening trade flows from Armenia to the EU, in line with the objectives of the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The preferential arrangement comes with certain conditions and includes safeguard measures to protect the EU market if imports adversely affect EU producers. 

This final adoption follows the positive vote in the European Parliament plenary session on the Commission’s proposal without amendments.

“We are stepping up our support for Armenia and its people, who have clearly chosen a pro-European path in spite of foreign pressures. Today's decision will help Armenia’s economy hit by trade restrictions and shows that our partners can always count on the EU,” said Helen McEntee, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade of Ireland.