YEREVAN. – Zhoghovurd newspaper of Armenia writes that the daily has found out that an increase in prices is expected as of January 1; prices for about 699 products - meat, vegetable oil, grain, fertilizer, medicine - will rise in the country.

But economist Gagik Makaryan told Zhoghovurd daily that there are some compensating circumstances. That is, possible social shocks will be prevented. Small business with a turnover of up to 24 million drams will not be taxed next year, and the income tax will be reduced. According to the economist, raising the minimum wage is also a factor compensating for inflation.

And the ongoing decline in agriculture, he said, can be regulated; it is necessary, for example, to increase the role of processing companies.

Commenting on the known problems the cargo carriers have in Upper Lars, the economist told Zhoghovurd daily: "The problem with Upper Lars will also be solved because now the Ministry of Territorial Administration, which is responsible for infrastructure, is going to buy one or two ferries, maybe from Russia.