EU Council greenlights temporary suspension of import duties for Armenian products

The European Union on Wednesday announced temporary trade liberalization measures for Armenian products to support Armenia’s economy following trade restrictions imposed by Russia earlier this year.

The measure involves a temporary suspension of import duties and will cover approximately 80% of Armenia’s exports, including 99% of its fresh fruit, vegetables and plants and more than 91% of its exports of beverages and spirits, the European Council said in a statement. The measures will apply for two years.

“Europe stands with Armenia and its people, who have chosen a clear path for reform and closer cooperation with the European Union. Today’s decision sends a clear message: when faced with economic coercion, the EU will respond. We will create new opportunities and stand with our partners,” Helen McEntee, Ireland's minister of foreign affairs and defense, said, commenting on the decision.

The Council’s statement added that the arrangements are conditional on Armenia complying with applicable rules of origin, engaging in administrative cooperation with the EU, refraining from introducing trade restrictions on EU imports, and remaining compliant with the bloc’s core principles, which include democratic norms, the rule of law, and respect to human rights.

The measure is now subject to approval by the European Parliament, and the Council said it is expected to be adopted without amendments later this month.

Also read: Armenia faces sweeping Russian import restrictions across industries

Moscow gradually introduced broad restrictions targeting a large share of Armenia’s exports starting in May. The measures affected agricultural produce, alcoholic beverages, flowers and mineral water, despite Armenia’s membership in the Russian-led Eurasian Economic Union.

While Russia has described the measures as technical and linked them to alleged systemic violations of product quality, many economists have characterized them as a trade war. The restrictions have coincided with increased political pressure on Yerevan.

Also read: Putin warns Armenia’s EU pivot could mirror Ukraine scenario