Armenia Gains EU Approval for High-Quality Fish and Aquaculture Exports
- Key Takeaways:
- Armenia will be able to export high-quality aquaculture fish and fish products to the EU starting March 16, 2025.
- This makes Armenia the first country in the region to gain such comprehensive access to the EU market for all types of aquaculture fish.
- The agreement follows approximately eight years of negotiations.
- Armenian businesses will need to be registered in the TRACES system for monitoring and tracking animal-origin products.
- The decision is expected to significantly boost Armenia’s aquaculture sector and export potential.
YEREVAN – Armenia has achieved a significant milestone in its economic integration with the European Union. Starting March 16, 2025, the country will have the right to export high-quality aquaculture fish and fish products to EU member states. This landmark agreement, announced on March 13 by Tigran Petrosyan, Deputy Head of Armenia’s Food Safety Inspectorate, positions Armenia as the first nation in the region to secure such comprehensive access to the EU market for all categories of aquaculture fish.
Years of Negotiations Culminate in Regional First
The successful outcome of negotiations, which spanned approximately eight years, underscores Armenia’s commitment to meeting stringent EU standards in food safety and quality. This achievement not only opens up a significant new market for Armenian producers but also highlights the country’s growing capabilities in the aquaculture sector. The fact that Armenia is the first in the region to attain this level of access speaks volumes about its progress and dedication to international trade standards.
Stringent EU Standards and TRACES System Integration
While the agreement marks a significant step forward, Armenian businesses looking to capitalize on this opportunity will need to adhere to specific EU regulations. A key requirement is the registration of these enterprises within the TRACES (Trade Control and Expert System) system. This online platform is used by the EU to monitor and track the movement of animals and animal-origin products, ensuring transparency and food safety throughout the supply chain. The final export permits will be granted by the Food Safety Inspectorate following laboratory tests and the issuance of necessary licenses, ensuring that all exported products meet the EU’s high standards.
Boost for Armenia’s Growing Aquaculture Sector
The aquaculture sector in Armenia has been experiencing steady growth in recent years, with producers investing in modern technologies to optimize water resource utilization and enhance the quality of their products. Tigran Aleksanyan, Head of the Livestock Department at the Ministry of Economy, affirmed this progress, highlighting the state’s support programs for businesses adopting advanced technologies and equipment for raw material processing. The favorable bio-climatic conditions in Armenia further contribute to the high quality and international demand for its fish and fish products.
Economic Implications and Future Prospects
The decision to allow exports to the EU is expected to provide a significant boost to the Armenian economy. In 2024, Armenia produced approximately 27,000 tons of fish and fish products, a 4-5% increase compared to the previous year. Gor Grigoryan, Director of the Union of Fish Breeders of Armenia, noted that around 15,000 tons were already being exported to countries like Russia, the UAE, and the USA, which have stringent requirements comparable to the EU. The newly granted access to the EU market is anticipated to further accelerate production and diversify Armenia’s export destinations, solidifying its position as a self-sufficient nation in aquaculture and a key player in the post-Soviet region.