YEREVAN. – In July 2013, a 5.5-percent hike was recorded, as compared to July 2012, and a 2.2-percent rise was registered, as compared to June 2013, in the prices of non-alcoholic beverages in Armenia.  

The aforesaid increase is primarily due to the 4.1-6.1-percent rise in the prices of mineral waters, informs the National Statistical Service.   

To note, the main reason for this upsurge is the fact that the respective businesses now have to attach stamp labels on the bottles. These labels do not increase the prices, but they substantially prevent shadow turnover.

Now, the businesses are obligated to legally register the labeled product and pay taxes for it, and this has caused the aforesaid increase.