A number of sectors in Armenia’s food processing industry reported export growth in the first quarter of the year.

For example, the export of dried fruits and vegetables climbed by 59% in Q1 2020 to 300 tons against 188.6 tons in Q1 2019. The export of canned food increased by 18% to total 10.517 tons against 8.859 tons.

According to EU4Business, marketing strategy and capacity of Armenian companies are key to promoting local products abroad. Since 2017, the Ready to Trade project has been contributing to improving the Armenian companies’ marketing capacity. The project is being implemented by the International Trade Centre and supported by the EU.



The project’s 13 beneficiary companies have received marketing assistance in different directions.  

“Despite the challenges of 2020, the exports of our dried fruits did not drop. We even managed to access new markets: we exported organic dried fruits to the UK and ended the year with export growth. As part of the Ready to Trade project, we will soon have a new website with e-commerce features. It will help us to connect with international partners and increase sales volumes,” said notes Lukashin Agricultural Association Director Vardges Davtyan.

Reindert Dekkert, an international expert at the Centre for the Promotion of Imports from Developing Countries (CBI), is providing marketing consultancy to a number of local SMEs in the food processing sector. He has noted:

“A winning pricing strategy, certificates, compelling branding, reliable supply chains and effective customer communication are essential for boosting exports to international markets. A customer-friendly and sustainable packaging which enhances the product’s shelf life is also key to ensuring competitiveness and success.”

In 2021, the Ready to Trade project beneficiaries are looking to boost their exports to the European Union, China, and United Arab Emirates.