Armenia has registered a 30% increase in exports and a 7% increase in imports as compared with the corresponding period last year, Gagik Minasyan (Republican Party of Armenia-RPA), Chairman of the Standing Committee on Financial-Credit and Budgetary Affairs, Parliament of Armenia, told journalists on April 1. He pointed out a traditionally poor imports/exports ratio.

“Given last year’s dynamics, exports register more progressive rates than imports. This is evidence of our exportable goods being competitive in the foreign market,” Minasyan said.

“It is not only the minerals and raw materials, but also processed agricultural produce, precious stones and gold,” Minasyan said. He also pointed out alarming inflation rates.

An inflation rate of 5.2% was registered in Armenia this January-March, which is a serious challenge. However, Minasyan forecasts moderate inflation for the latter half of this year – an inflation rate of 4% to 6% is realistic for the end of the year. According to him, the decision on a 30% discount on gas price for socially vulnerable families is aimed to curb inflation as well. “Socially vulnerable families will receive compensations for 300 cubic meters of gas, and this amount of gas will be supplied to them at 100 AMD rather than at 132 AMD. It will seriously relieve the social burden for the families amid inflation,” Minasyan said.