Hraparak daily of Armenia writes as follows, in particular: Last week, economy minister Gevorg Papoyan had met with representatives of large greenhouse farms and discussed the current problems. Although the official statement is quite restrained, and there is a cursory reference to the challenges facing [Armenia’s] greenhouse owners, it is noted that reference was made to “export diversification.”

However, according to our information, a rather heated discussion took place, but the minister was still unable to offer a solution to the businessmen. Let us remind: Since May 22, Russia has limited the import of a number of goods—including agricultural products, fish, Jermuk [mineral water], brandy and flowers—from Armenia to Russia,.

They told us that Papoyan offered the greenhouse owners help, or rather, he said how the state could help them so that they would not suffer too much. But the greenhouse owners unanimously insisted that their biggest problem is the market, they do not have a certification to export to the European market, and the Russian one has, in fact, been closed to them by the [Armenian] authorities’ doing, so the only solution is to open that market.

Papoyan said in a low voice that this is not possible at the moment, which angered the greenhouse owners. They reminded the [Armenian] authorities’ promises that, “If you establish an economy, start a business, we will stand with you.” And they [i.e. the greenhouse owners] have made large investments, taken out loans, and are now faced with the fact. The greenhouse owners left [the meeting with the economy minister] dissatisfied and without solutions.