Armenia’s First Symbolic Shipment of Apricots Arrives in EU as Yerevan Pushes to Diversify Exports Beyond Russia

The first symbolic shipment of Armenian apricots has arrived in the European Union — a major milestone in Armenia’s efforts to diversify its exports and strengthen economic ties with Europe.

The announcement was made by EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, who shared a photo on X alongside Armenian Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure Davit Khudatyan holding Armenian apricots.

“Thank you to Armenia’s Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure Davit Khudatyan for the gift and for a very good discussion,” Kos wrote. “We met ahead of the launch of the Connectivity Agenda platform, where we will advance our work to better connect Armenia with its neighbors and Europe.”

According to Kos, the Connectivity Agenda platform will help Armenian producers diversify their exports and bring more high-quality products to new markets across the European Union.

The development comes as Armenia seeks to reduce its dependence on a single export destination. International trade data shows that Armenia exported approximately 5,300 tons of fresh apricots in 2023 and 5,729 tons in 2024, with more than 93 percent of exports going to Russia. The figures underscore the importance of opening alternative markets for one of Armenia’s most iconic agricultural products.

Exports surged dramatically in 2025. According to Armenian government figures, the country had exported more than 41,800 tons of apricots by late July 2025, making it one of the strongest export seasons in recent years and highlighting the growing importance of foreign markets for Armenian producers.

Recent data suggests the 2026 export season is already underway. Armenian Economy Minister Georg Papoyan reported that between June 19 and June 21 alone, Armenia exported 371 tons of apricots, alongside 154 tons of cherries, 19 tons of strawberries, 144 tons of peppers, 76 tons of tomatoes, and more than 390,000 flowers.

The EU initiative comes amid growing economic tensions between Armenia and Russia. In recent months, Russian authorities have imposed restrictions on various Armenian products entering the Russian market, raising concerns among exporters and agricultural producers. Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that Armenia may eventually face a choice between deeper integration with the European Union and membership in the Eurasian Economic Union.

In response to the economic challenges, the European Union has pledged more than €50 million in immediate financial assistance to Armenia. The support package is intended to facilitate access for Armenian goods to European markets while supporting regional connectivity and infrastructure development.

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