Armenia`s economic pattern is showing changes, particularly, a declining share of the construction sector, Armenian Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan stated at the 18th sitting of the Board of Trustees, National Competitiveness Foundation of Armenia. He pointed out the construction sector has a 15% share in the country’s GDP against the previous 25%. “The industrial sector’s share is increasing. If we compare the services sector`s share with the 2005 figures, we can see an increase from 30 up to 40 per cent,” the Premier said.

The Armenian Premier pointed out the importance of increasing exports. “We recorded a 40% increase in exports, and an increase of around 15% in imports. That is the trade balance is showing better tendencies. We have also recorded positives balance of payments tendencies,” the Armenian Premier said.

Tigran Sargsyan underlined the importance of a substantial reduction in Internet service prices, as well as of a two-fold increase in the number of Internet users. He said that the 4G application in Armenia will rank the country among the ten world leaders.

The Armenian Premier also addressed tax benefits granted as part of economic reforms. “The Government decided to grants tax benefits, as well as VAT deferral, to 12 enterprises. The programs will be carried through this year and increase the industrial sector`s share in GDP,” Sargsyan said.. He hopes for further economic diversification this year.