The application of an AMD 22,000 customs duty for each ton of imported cement might contradict the international commitments that Armenia has assumed within the framework of the WHO and the EAEU. This is what Director of the Center for Economic Development Initiatives Marina Arakelyan said during a discussion on the situation over the bill on cement production on April 18.

According to Arakelyan, the Armenian authorities need to combine the desire to support local cement producers with the interests of builders who have valid contracts and who take into consideration the price of cement.

“The cement price hike may lead to negative consequences for the country’s economic growth. This is due to the fact that construction makes up 6.8% of the country’s GDP. Armenia needs a diversified economy for sustainable economic development,” she stated.

Earlier, Armenian News-NEWS.am had reported that last week the parliament’s Standing Committee on Economic Affairs had considered a bill proposing to set an AMD 22,000 customs duty for each ton of imported cement.