The European Union's move to suspend import duties on around 80 per cent of Armenian products is a goodwill gesture towards Yerevan, but analysts say it is unlikely to have a significant impact on the European market.
Brussels has said the initial two-year measure will support Armenia's economy and help the country develop alternative markets in the face of trade restrictions imposed by Russia. Moscow is Yerevan’s largest trading partner, accounting for more than 35 per cent of the country’s trade in 2025.
Murad Muradov, deputy director of Baku’s Topchubashov Centre, said the political significance of the EU’s decision was notable.
“I think the EU tries to send a clear signal to Yerevan that its steps aimed at getting closer to Europe will be mutual.
“Moscow has based its Eurosceptic campaign in Armenia on economic issues. Russia has always been Armenia's overwhelmingly key trade partner, and the EU traditionally applies very stringent standards when it comes to imports from outside of the EU countries.”
Muradov said Russian politicians and experts had argued that Armenia had little chance of exporting its goods and achieving economic prosperity outside the Russian-aligned framework.
The EU measure was therefore intended to show Yerevan that closer relations with Brussels could come with economic support, Muradov said. However, he noted that Armenia’s relatively small export market meant the additional goods were unlikely to have a significant impact on the European market.
Muradov also warned that the arrangement could stir resentment among other countries seeking similar access to European markets.
“Questions may arise among other EU partners who, for example, for years have tried to gain the right to export to Europe, especially when it comes to food: fruit, vegetables, meat products,” he said.
“The partners may question European integrity and consistency when it comes to the standards.”
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