October 7, 2013

Armenia's Jan-Jun corn imports up 58% on-year

In January-June of 2013, Armenia's corn imports rose by 58% on-year due to an increased demand on feed ingredients within the country, according to the country's Ministry of Agriculture.

In recent years Armenia has been actively trying to develop beef, lamb and pork production which is reflected in the rise of livestock numbers in 2012 and first half of 2013.

According to the ministry's report, during the first six months of the year, 38,946 tonnes of corn has been imported. This year, the largest exporters were Russia with 21,939 tonnes, Ukraine with 15,855 tonnes and Georgia with 1,087 tonnes.

According to Hrachya Tspnetsyan, head of development programmes for the Ministry of Agriculture, in the coming years Armenia will promote the increase of corn and wheat production with the aim of keeping imports to a minimum. As per preliminary plans, by 2020, 80-85% of food and feed products in Armenia should have Armenian origin.