Armenia to Ban Individuals From Exporting Commercial Quantities of Produce

Armenia will ban individuals from exporting commercial quantities of agricultural products subject to phytosanitary control starting July 10, introducing stricter rules as the country faces growing trade disruptions with Russia.

The Food Safety Inspectorate announced that individuals will only be allowed to carry up to 5 kilograms (11 pounds) of phytosanitary-controlled products for personal use. Larger shipments must be exported through the procedures required for commercial trade.

Officials said the measure is designed to improve the traceability of exported goods, allowing authorities to verify where products originate and helping prevent low-quality shipments from reaching foreign markets.

The new requirements are based on technical regulations of the Eurasian Economic Union, the regional trade bloc that includes Armenia.

The inspectorate urged exporters, businesses and members of the public to review the phytosanitary requirements that apply to their products before arranging shipments abroad and to ensure all exports comply with the updated regulations.

The policy takes effect as Armenia's agricultural exports continue to face restrictions from Russia, its largest export market. Over the past month, Russian authorities have suspended imports of Armenian fruits and vegetables, citing repeated quality concerns and violations identified during inspections.

Moscow has also restricted the transit of Armenian goods through Russian territory to other members of the Eurasian Economic Union. Russian officials have simultaneously called on Armenia to clarify whether it intends to remain in the Moscow-led economic bloc or move toward membership in the European Union.

Armenia's government has rejected the suggestion that it must choose between the two paths, saying it does not believe such a decision is necessary at this stage.

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