RESTRICTED  
  
WT/TPR/W/ 157 
14 December 2018  
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Trade Policy Review Body    
 
* In Original language only/ En langue originale seulement /En el idioma original solamente . 
  
ARMENIA  
DRAFT MINUTES  OF THE MEETING* HELD ON 20 AND 22 NOVEMBER 2 018 
Delegations are invited to submit factual corrections, if any, on their own statement to the 
Secretariat ( Mrs Barbara Blanquart: barbara.blanquart@wto.org , or to  tprd@wto.org ) no later 
than 6 January 2019 . 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
 
ARMÉNIE  
PROJET DE COMPTE REN DU DE LA RÉUNION* TENUE LES 20 ET 22 NOVEMBRE 20 18 
Les délégations sont invitées à soumettre  leurs éventuelles corrections factuelles concernant leurs 
propres déclarations au Secrétariat ( Mme Barbara Blanquart: barbara.blanquart@wto.org , ou 
tprd@wto.org ) le 6 janvier 2019  au plus tard.  
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
 
ARMENIA  
PROYECTO DE ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN* CELEBRADA LOS DÍAS 20 Y 22 DE NOVIEMBRE  DE 2018  
Las delegaciones pueden enviar a la Secretaría (Sr a. Barbara Blanquart: 
barbara.blanquart@wto.org , o tprd@wto.org ) a más tardar el 6 de enero de 2019  las 
correcciones fácticas que deseen introducir en sus propias declaracion es. 
 
 
_______________  
 
  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
 
ARMENIA  
DRAFT  MINUTES OF THE MEET ING 
Chairperson: H.E. Mr. Junichi Ihara (Japan)  
CONTENTS  
 
1   INTRODUCTORY REM ARKS BY THE CHAIRPER SON ................................ ......................  3 
2   OPENING STATEMEN T BY THE REPRESENTAT IVE OF ARMENIA  ................................ ... 5 
3   STATEMENT BY THE  DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ .............  10 
4   STATEMENTS BY ME MBERS  ................................ ................................ ........................  15 
5   REPLIES BY THE R EPRESENTATIVE OF ARM ENIA AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  ...... 30 
6   CONCLUDING REMAR KS BY THE CHAIRPERSO N ................................ ........................  34 
7   ADOPTION  OF THE TPRB'S ANNUA L REPORT FOR 2018  ................................ .............  36 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided 
by Armenia are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/379/Add.1 and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The second Trade Policy Review of Armenia was held on 20 and 22 November 2018. Due to 
the absence of the TPRB chairman, H.E. Mr. Eloi Laourou (Benin), the Chair of the General Council, 
H.E.  Mr. Junichi Ihara (Japan), chaired the meeting in accordance with  paragraph 8 of the Rules of 
Procedure of the Trade Policy Review Body. He welcomed the delegation of Armenia, headed by 
Mr. Avag Avanesyan, Deputy Minister of Economic Development and Investment; the rest of the 
delegation; and the discussant, H.E. Mr. Mi chael Gaffey (Ireland).  
1.2.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of trade policy reviews and the main elements of 
procedures for the meeting. The report by Armenia was contained in document WT/TPR/G/379 and 
that of the WTO Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/379.  
1.3.  Questions by the following delegations had been submitted in writing before the deadline: 
Iceland; China; United States; Japan; European Union; and Ukraine. The following delegations 
submitted written questions after the deadline: Argentina; Thailand; Can ada; and India.  
1.4.  During its previous Review in 2010, Members had commended Armenia for the progress it had 
made since acceding to the WTO in 2003. Members had noted that Armenia's open attitude to trade 
and investment, aided by remittances from Armenians li ving abroad, had been critical factors in the 
rapid economic growth and poverty reduction at that time. However, the global economic downturn 
in 2008/09, exacerbated by a narrow export base, demonstrated that a major challenge for the 
Government was to enc ourage diversification in order to reduce exposure to external shocks.  
1.5.  At that time, Members' questions had focused on a number of areas, including: potential 
market access limitations resulting from border procedures, rules of origin and customs valuation ; 
the transparency and application of SPS and TBT measures; and laws on intellectual property and 
geographical indications.  
1.6.  In the period under review, the major change to Armenia's trade policy was its accession to 
the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) in 20 15. This means that most aspects of trade policy are now 
decided at the EAEU level, which is responsible for, inter alia , the common external tariff, 
contingency measures, customs procedures, rules of origin, customs valuation, the development of 
technical  requirements and SPS measures, and negotiations on free trade agreements. However, 
responsibility for trade in services and investment policy remains largely with the individual EAEU 
member States. In parallel, Armenia continued to cooperate with the Euro pean Union, having signed 
the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA) which had been ratified by both 
parties in June 2018.  
1.7.  There were contrasting aspects resulting from Armenia joining the EAEU. On the one hand, the 
simple average tariff i ncreased from 2.7% to 7.5% and, on the other hand, for example, customs 
procedures of the EAEU required customs clearance in four hours, electronic documents and a single 
window. These requirements obliged Armenia to upgrade its customs posts. As a result,  customs 
procedures are now considered to be more efficient, require fewer documents, and cost less.  
1.8.  Other measures taken by Armenia over the past few years also improved the business climate. 
These include efforts to improve governance through transparenc y in government procurement by 
means of an open online system, and Armenia becoming a party to the revised GPA. The review 
period also witnessed improved legislation on competition policy and its enforcement, and a 
comprehensive legal framework for intelle ctual property protection, although enforcement appears 
to remain problematic in some areas.  
1.9.  In terms of its membership of the WTO, Armenia ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement, 
deposited its instrument of acceptance, and notified provisions for imple mentation under categories 
A, B, and C. However, it is not a party to the Information Technology Agreement and has yet to 
accept the Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement.  
1.10.   Regarding its trade performance, Armenia's persistent trade deficit narrowed conside rably 
over the past few years, as exports of agricultural products, tourism and mining products increased. 
Interestingly, mining represented only 3.5% of GDP but mining products (including gold) 
represented over half of exports.  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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1.11.   With a narrow geographic an d product export base, high dependence on expatriate 
remittances, and about 60% of bank loans and deposits in U.S. dollars, Armenia continues to be 
exposed to external shocks. As shown in the Government Report, the authorities are aware of the 
risks and th e Armenian Development Strategy 2014 -25 emphasizes the importance of improving the 
business and investment environment, and competitiveness.  
1.12.   Based on the advance written questions posed by Members for this Review, the Chairperson 
drew Members' attention to  some issues of interest to them. These included, among others, the 
following: coordination of Armenia's trade policies with the Commission of the EAEU in particular 
with regard to trade defence instruments; measures being undertaken to increase and divers ify 
exports in goods and services and attract foreign investment; how technical regulations and SPS 
measures have been adopted since accession to the EAEU; developments in competition policy and 
government procurement; strengths and weaknesses of the evolv ing IPR system; and how Armenia 
is seeking to improve economies of scale in agricultural production under the current Action Plan.  
1.13.   This meeting served as a good opportunity for Members to discuss in greater detail issues of 
interest to them and of systemi c importance to the multilateral trading system. The Chairperson 
looked forward to a fruitful exchange.  
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE OF ARMENIA (MR.  AVAG  AVANESYAN)  
2.1.  I have the honour to head the Armenian delegation to attend the second WTO Tra de Policy 
Review of Armenia. I would like to personally thank you, Ambassador Ihara, for the kind opening 
remarks. Our thanks go to His Excellency Mr. Michael Gaffey for agreeing to act as the discussant. 
We also extend our special appreciation to the WTO Secretariat and, in particular, to the TPR Division, 
John Finn, Mario Kakabadse, Fatima Chaudhri, Patricia Curran, as well as Mr. Samer Seif El Yazal for 
their hard and excellent work in preparing and supporting the preparation of the TPR report of 
Armenia , as well as to all WTO Members that have shown their interest in the trade policy review of 
Armenia and submitted their written questions. We are glad to note that Armenia has provided its 
written answers to the more than 120 questions submitted by the WT O Members both before and 
after the deadline, with the exception of questions received from India a few days ago, which we 
will answer as soon as possible. We also look forward to the exchange of views that will take place 
during the meetings.  
2.2.  We believe t hat the Trade Policy Review Mechanism is a very important instrument to ensure 
the transparency of trade policies of the WTO Members, that allows for an evaluation of the 
adherence of the trade regulations to WTO rules, as well as providing a forum for pre senting the 
positive developments and achievements of WTO Members in trade liberalization, highlighting the 
challenges in various areas and the economic and development needs of the country necessary to 
overcome them. We would like to use this opportunity to receive feedback from other WTO Members 
with regard to the drawbacks in the trade policy where further efforts should be undertaken. We 
hope that the TPR reports and the answers already provided by Armenia to the questions of WTO 
Members will help to be tter understand the trade policy of Armenia.  
Trade policy achievements  
2.3.  Being a small and land -locked country with no significant deposits of natural resources to boast 
despite the strong mining sector, trade has been the only feasible pathway for growth in  Armenia. 
Thus, despite having closed borders with two of our neighbours, and with a comparatively small 
share in global trade in goods and services, Armenia has made significant strides in its economic 
development, considerably improving the trade policy and the business environment since the first 
Trade Policy Review of Armenia in 2010. This has been achieved through successful implementation 
of reforms and the invaluable assistance and cooperation from our international partners.  
2.4.  While the Secretariat r eport and the Report of Armenia shed more detailed light on each sector 
of trade policy of Armenia, allow me to highlight a few areas where we think we have made significant 
progress.  
2.5.  The improvement of trade policy is a key component of economic developme nt for Armenia. 
The trade policy of Armenia has competitiveness at its core and, among others, targets the 
improvement of business environment and investment climate. This is achieved through continuous 
elimination of trade barriers, modernization of infra structure, ensuring smoothness of cross -border 
trade procedures as well as promotion of entrepreneurship, small -, medium - and micro. The cross -
cutting umbrella policy is ensuring equal opportunities for all and guaranteeing the rule of law.  
2.6.  Armenia has had  a rapidly growing economy since early 2000's, with an average GDP growth 
of 11.3%, with a short decline resulting from the Global Financial Crisis over the 2008 -2009 period. 
The economy of Armenia has since gradually recovered from the decline, showing an  annual average 
real GDP growth of 4% and reaching a real GDP growth of 7.5% in 2017. The external trade turnover 
has increased by 32% since the last TPR, reaching USD 6.3 billion in 2017 compared to 
USD 4.8 billion in 2010, with a 113.6% increase in expor ts. 
2.7.  The Government of Armenia gives high importance to the development and structural change 
of the agriculture sector, considering its average 17.5% share in the GDP and 33% share in 
employment. Through persistent efforts in eliminating trade barriers and  providing profitability 
raising incentives, introduction of modern technologies and creating favourable conditions for 
economic activity in the sector, we have achieved a near 42.4% increase in gross agricultural output 
compared to 2010.  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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2.8.  The regulatory an d supervisory environment of the financial sector in general, and the banking 
and insurance sector in particular, has been significantly improved to comply with international best 
practice and standards, and accordingly has received very good appraisals fr om international 
organizations and partners.  
2.9.  IT industry is one of the rapidly growing sectors of the economy in Armenia. Compared to 
2010, the employment rate in the sector has tripled, and the total revenue has increased by five 
times as of 2017. Armenia  is considered to be a regional leader in IT and high -tech industry.  
2.10.   Taking into account the unique historical and cultural heritage of Armenia and as a result of 
substantial efforts of the Government to develop the tourism sector, the number of tourists visiting 
Armenia has increased by nearly 119% compared to 2010.  
Liberalization and reforms  
2.11.   The mentioned economic achievements have been accomplished through major reforms and 
liberalization efforts in key areas.  
2.12.   Since joining the Eurasian Economic Union in 2015, Armenia implements customs tariff and 
non-tariff regulations based on the EAEU Treaty, and the Customs Code of the EAEU has entered 
into force in 2018. Significant improvements have been made in customs procedures, namely, 
self-declaration desks a t customs houses and warehouses and a risk management system have been 
introduced, a Single Window portal was launched, three border crossing points have been 
modernized. Armenia ratified the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement on 20 March 2017, which was 
an important step towards further trade liberalization. I would like to highlight that more than half 
of the TFA commitments have been implemented as part of Category A commitments, while around 
40% of the commitments will be implemented after a transition pe riod, and Armenia will need 
support to implement three remaining commitments.  
2.13.   The Government has taken a number of measures to reduce non -tariff barriers to trade, 
among which are the modernization and improvement of the legislation and infrastructure for 
technical regulations, accreditation and conformity assessment, standardization, metrology, market 
surveillance and food safety system.  
2.14.   Recognizing the importance of foreign investments as drivers of technological change, 
Armenia has significantly liberali zed its investment policy. The main objectives of the investment 
policy are the improvement of the legal framework, attraction of investments through the creation 
of favourable business environment, providing necessary incentives and guarantees to investor s, 
increasing transparency of the regulatory environment and public service delivery. To this end, 
Armenia has signed bilateral treaties on investment promotion and protection with 42 countries.  
2.15.   The Government's efforts in the business environment are dir ected at simplification of tax and 
customs administration, simplification of company registration process, protection of interests of 
small shareholders, etc. Since the first TPR of Armenia, significant improvements have been achieved 
in these areas, as al so evidenced by the high ratings of the studies of international organizations.  
2.16.   Armenia acceded to the WTO Agreement on Government Procurement on 15 September 2011 
and to the WTO Revised Agreement on Government Procurement on 5 June 2015. In 2016, the new 
law "On Procurements" was adopted to ensure compliance with the revised GPA, to increase 
transparency and to ensure independence of the procurement appeal system.  
2.17.   The aviation policy has been significantly liberalized in line with the "open sky" policy ad opted 
by the Government, aiming to simplify procedures, reduce bureaucracy and create a predictable 
environment for all stakeholders. Furthermore, the EU -Armenia Common Aviation Area Agreement 
was initialled in November 2017.  
International cooperation and multilateral trading system  
2.18.   Armenia is a strong supporter of free trade, bilateral and plurilateral international cooperation, 
which we believe are key in achieving economic development for small economies. The expansion 
of the geography of foreign economi c relations is one of the priority directions of the Government of WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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  Armenia. WTO plays a key role in this matter, by ensuring a predictable trade system and providing 
a forum for negotiations and clarifications of our trade policy.  
2.19.   One of the main developme nts in this area is the accession of Armenia to the Eurasian 
Economic Union on 2 January 2015. The accession has opened new trade and development 
opportunities for Armenia providing for the free movement of goods, services, capital and labour in 
a market o f 118 million consumers.  
2.20.   On 24 November 2017, the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement was signed 
between Armenia and the EU, which has provisionally entered into force since 1 June 2018. The 
Agreement is a new step towards the strengthening of  the economic relations and the bilateral 
dialogue between the EU and Armenia, as well as providing opportunities to improve market 
contestability and business regulatory environment.  
2.21.   In May 2015, the Republic of Armenia and the United States of America s igned a Trade and 
Investment Framework Agreement. The TIFA provides a framework and principles for dialogue on 
trade and investment issues, with the objective of improving cooperation and enhancing 
opportunities for trade and investment.  
2.22.   Armenia maintains its bilateral free trade agreements signed before the accession to the 
EAEU. Furthermore, in the EAEU framework, the free trade agreement between the EAEU and 
Viet Nam entered into force in 2016, a framework agreement for economic cooperation was signed 
with China and an Interim Agreement leading to formation of a free trade area was signed with the 
Islamic Republic of Iran, both in May 2018, the FTA negotiations are ongoing with a number of 
countries.  
2.23.   Armenia continues to participate in the ongoing WTO pr ocesses. As mentioned, Armenia 
acceded to the WTO Agreement on Government Procurement and the WTO Revised Agreement on 
Government Procurement, as well as the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Internal consultations 
to join other WTO initiatives are underwa y. 
Challenges  
2.24.   Notwithstanding the positive approach of my speech and the highlights of the main 
achievements, it is also necessary to point out that Armenia faces a number of challenges and issues 
on the way of its economic development, trade facilitation,  elimination of trade barriers and 
institutional capacity building. Armenia welcomes all and any assistance or support initiatives and 
projects from the international community.  
Closing remarks  
2.25.   To conclude my statement, I would like to reiterate the willin gness and commitment of 
Armenia to actively engage in WTO processes and adhere to the multilateral trading rules set up by 
the WTO. I would also like to once again thank all the participating Members for their interest in the 
second TPR of Armenia and the WTO Secretariat for the invaluable support during the process.  
2.26.   I look forward to hearing the statements, comments and questions of the WTO Members 
today, which we will be glad to address.  
2.27.   Mr. Chairperson, could we please pass the floor to Mr. Mr. Tigran Da vtyan, our Representative, 
for remarks and information regarding our ongoing compensatory negotiations.  
MR. TIGRAN  DAVTYAN   
2.28.   First of all, I would like to join the Head of our delegation and warmly welcome the Members 
of the distinguished delegations presen t at our Trade Policy Review meeting today.  
2.29.   We understand that observation and monitoring of national trade policies are one of the 
fundamental WTO activities and strongly support the TPR mechanism aimed at enhancing of 
transparency and building of confide nce in the multilateral trade system.  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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2.30.   I would like to briefly present the current status of ongoing compensatory adjustment 
negotiations, which were initiated by Armenia after accession to the EAEU.  
2.31.   As you know, the Republic of Armenia after completion of the ratification procedures on 
2 January 2015, has become a full member of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and since then 
it has been applying the Common External Tariff (CET) of the EAEU, as well as other regulations, 
including special anti -dumping and  compensatory measures of the EAEU.  
2.32.   Armenia has submitted its notification under the procedures laid down in GATT Article XXIV:6, 
particularly the modification of its commitments in Armenia's Schedule CLV. We have also informed 
interested Members that we w ould be ready to enter into GAIT Articles XXIV and XXVIII procedures, 
including tariff negotiations or consultations to address the compensatory adjustments provided 
under Article XXIV:6 of GAIT 1994.  
2.33.   We have received claims of interests from the various i nterested WTO Members and entered 
into GATT Articles XXIV and XXVIII procedures including tariff negotiations and consultations to 
address the compensatory adjustments provided under Article XXIV.  
2.34.   Meanwhile, we have received a number of technical requests from the interested Members. 
Some of the Members asked for a more clarified and comprehensive statistics, while others request 
for concordance or correlation tables between goods nomenclature. With the support of the 
Secretariat all required information as  well as updated statistics was prepared and now is available 
to the interested Members.  
2.35.   During this period, we have had a number of formal and informal meetings and negotiations 
with all interested Members. We consider them as positive and productive and appreciate the 
delegations' efforts put and the time spent. Currently, we are continuing consultations and 
communications with the respective Members' representatives, as well as discussions and exchange 
of information on the concerned issues.  
2.36.   After substa ntive discussions with our partners in EAEU, we have prepared new proposal on 
compensation request with the comprehensive list of industrial goods for which we are ready to 
consider the possibility for further liberalization of our bound import duties.  
2.37.   The list was approved by the Board of the EAEU Commission and submitted in April 2018.  
2.38.   On 15 May 2018, bilateral (multilateral) meetings have been organized in Geneva between 
Armenia and EU delegations with participation of EAEU countries representatives. Dur ing the 
meetings we had very constructive discussions and consultations on the above -mentioned proposal 
and agreed on steps to be done further.  
2.39.   We do hope that our new proposal will lay sound grounds for substantive negotiations and 
that the progress aimed  at acceleration of the ongoing process will be achieved.  
2.40.   Meanwhile, we have prepared our proposal on TRQ for agricultural goods, and presented it to 
our EAEU partners. Discussions within EAEU structures are progressing and I do hope that the 
decision -making process will be completed soon. And thus, we would be able to provide our 
comprehensive reply and proposal for compensation request on the agricultural goods, as it has 
been already done for industrial goods.  
2.41.   At the same time, we understand that taking into account the number of the interested 
Members involved in the process, as well as the scope of the technical work to be done, additional 
time would be required to bring the process to the end.  
2.42.   And, as you know, during the CTG meeting last Monday, the C ouncil has agreed to provide 
with 12 -month extension until 2 January 2020 for conducting compensatory adjustment negotiations 
under Articles XXIV and XXVIII:3 of the GAIT 1994.  
2.43.   I would like to mention that during the Council meeting we have expressed our r eadiness to 
discuss the possibility of organizing the next round of negotiations with all the interested Members 
by the end of the year in Geneva.  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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  2.44.   We do hope that the progress aimed at acceleration of the ongoing process will be reached 
and we are ready to  continue our communication with the interested WTO Members in a pragmatic 
and constructive way.  
2.45.   We believe that further consultations and negotiations would be successful and assure our 
colleagues that Armenia will everything to complete the process as so on as possible in full 
compliance with the WTO rules and procedures.  
2.46.   Taking this opportunity, I would like to, once again, express appreciation to the distinguished 
delegations for the attention and wish us a very success in the Trade Policy Review exercis e today.  
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3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  
Introduction  
3.1.  I would like to begin by thanking you, Mr Chairman, for this opportunity to take on the role of 
discussant for the second Trade Policy Review of Armenia. I hope my comments will be of interest 
to the Arme nian delegation. I represent a country, Ireland, which provides evidence of the important 
economic benefits of the global rules -based system for small open economies. Ireland, a strongly 
committed member of the European Union, is a strong supporter of the multilateral trading system.  
3.2.  I would like to thank the Secretariat for their hard work and effectiveness in compiling the 
report and I thank the Armenian delegation for the Government report.  
3.3.  Finally, let me extend a warm welcome to the Deputy Minister of Economic Development and 
Investment of Armenia, Mr. Avag Avanesyan, and his team of officials, who have travelled from 
Yerevan. This review session is an important function of the WTO and an invaluable opportunity to 
focus on one Member and review all issu es affecting its trade policy.  
Wider context  
3.4.  At the outset, I should set out briefly the wider context for this discussion. Trade and economic 
development do not take place in a vacuum.  
3.5.  Since its last Review in 2010, Armenia has undergone a phase of polit ical reform, moving from 
a semi -presidential to a parliamentary system through the adoption of amendments to the 
constitution which came into effect in 2015. Under the new system, the President's powers include 
the conclusion of international treaties on t he recommendation of the Government, while the Prime 
Minister determines the main direction of Government policy. The strength of the democratic system 
was highlighted earlier this year when large scale popular protests and political upheaval resulted in 
a change of Government without violence and in accordance with the rule of law.  
3.6.  In terms of international economic partnerships since the last review, the most significant 
developments have been the accession of Armenia to the Eurasian Economic Union, in 2015, and 
the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement between Armenia and the European Union 
which came into force this year.  
3.7.  Within Armenia, other major changes since 2010 include a significant reform of the judicial 
system, as well as amendments  to the tax system, new capital requirements on banks, and ongoing 
changes to the energy sector.  
Economic and trade context  
3.8.  Armenia is an open economy, dependent on trade, investment, tourism and remittances. 
Imports and exports of goods and services repre sent the equivalent of 87% of GDP. Foreign 
remittances account for some 13% of GDP. This underlines the importance of formal trading and 
economic relationships, a functioning international trading system and global economic growth.  
3.9.  The Armenian economy has  performed quite well since the last Trade Policy Review in 2010 on 
the back of strong economic management and reform. Although growth has varied considerably 
from one year to the next, GDP per capita increased by 27% to more than USD  3,872.  
3.10.   Other positiv e indicators include: inflation under control, credit increasing, growing foreign 
exchange reserves, while export growth has outpaced import growth and inward investment has 
outgrown outward investment. In addition, unemployment has fallen although it rema ins high by 
international standards.  
3.11.   On the trade side, in the period 2010 to 2017, exports of goods almost doubled although they 
remain concentrated in mining and agriculture products. Exports of services also increased 
considerably mainly due to rising r eceipts from tourism.  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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  3.12.   Although Armenia continues to have a trade deficit, exports have been increasing faster than 
imports. The trade deficit has narrowed, while remittances have remained strong and the current 
account deficit has fallen from about 13% to 3% of GDP.  
3.13.   However, exports are not only concentrated in a small number of products and services but 
also in a small number of markets. The European Union and the Russian Federation account for well 
over half of all exports and imports.  
3.14.   As noted earlier, a ccession to the EAEU in 2015, the signing of a Comprehensive and Enhanced 
Economic Agreement with the EU and the conclusion or continuing negotiation of Free Trade 
Agreements with third parties, are the major external developments in economic and trade pol icy. 
3.15.   These agreements are testament to Armenia's export -led growth strategy and serve to 
underline Armenia's desire to develop economically through formal partnerships with neighbours 
and other parties, and in keeping with global trade rules and norms.  
3.16.   However, it should also be noted in this context that, as a consequence of joining the EAEU, 
Armenia's average import tariff has increased from 2.7% to 7.5%: the number of duty free tariff 
lines has fallen from nearly three -quarters of all tariff lines to le ss than one -fifth, and the number of 
tariff lines subject to complex tariffs has increased. Armenia is currently in the process of negotiating 
with WTO Members on addressing the consequences. I would also note that, as a consequence of 
accession to the EAE U, the Eurasian Economic Commission is now responsible for anti -dumping, 
countervailing and safeguard measures, in line with its responsibilities for the EAEU as a whole. This 
has resulted in an increase in trade -defence measures.  
3.17.   On the other hand, it sho uld be pointed out that accession to the EAEU appears to have 
improved some trade policies and practices including customs administration, with electronic 
documents, a single window, and automatic release of goods among the operations required under 
the Un ion's Customs Code.  
3.18.   Armenia continues to be an attractive destination for foreign inward investment, following an 
"open -door" policy. According to Armenia, it has signed bilateral investment treaties with 
42 countries. Target sectors for investment are ene rgy, telecommunications, mining, transportation 
and manufacturing. As of 2017, the Russian Federation, France, Germany and Argentina were the 
largest sources of foreign investment.  
3.19.   In broad terms, Armenia's international rankings have improved over the re view period, on 
foot of various regulatory reforms, and particularly in the areas of business start -ups. 
3.20.   Overall, therefore, the prospects for the Armenian economy appear bright and I note that, 
according to the IMF, the outlook is "very favourable" agains t a backdrop of Government policy 
designed to instil the conditions for sustainable economic growth.  
Policy and sectoral context  
3.21.   During the review period, there have been a number of major economic policy developments 
and initiatives domestically, with underpinning legislation, to ensure that the Armenian economy is 
both compliant and competitive on an international basis.  
3.22.   New policy developments since the last review include:  
• Continued privatization of state -owned enterprises – as of 1 January 2018, the re were 
156 commercial entities with more than 50% state ownership, the majority being in the 
healthcare sector. According to Armenia, there are no tax privileges accruing to such state -
owned enterprises.  
• Competition policy continues to be strengthened inc luding to meet international standards 
required by the EAEU and the CEPA agreement with the European Union.  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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• Government Procurement accounts for about 30% of Armenian government spending. 
Armenia became a Member of the WTO Plurilateral Agreement on Governme nt Procurement 
in 2011.  
• Agriculture plays an important role and exports have increased, albeit mainly due to 
phenomenal growth in exports of cigarettes. In WTO terms, government support for the sector 
is quite modest.  
• Mining and quarrying accounted for 40 % of goods exports in 2017.  
• Banking is a major sector but is seriously exposed to exchange rates with two -thirds of 
deposits and lending denominated in dollars. Legislative requirements that strengthen the 
potential of the banking system to contribute to e conomic development have been introduced. 
The Central Bank of Armenia has assumed greater responsibility for regulating the sector and 
there are no restrictions on foreign investment.  
• In the electricity sector, Armenia is aiming to move from a 'single -buyer' system to a more 
liberalized regime where independent entities can have better opportunities to access the 
market.  
• Tourism represented 29% of exports of goods and services with the number of arrivals 
doubling since 2010. The introduction of an 'open skies' policy will enhance both trade and 
tourism potential. There are proposals to strengthen tourism standards and consumer rights.  
• However, as regards intellectual property, while the framework for protection is strong, the 
mechanisms for enfor cing protection are not. It is hoped that the EAEU treaty, which aims to 
create a common system for IP protection, can lead to an improvement.  
• Finally, Armenia aims to continue to improve the business environment through its 
Development Strategy 2014 -2025, including through:  
o Increasing international competitiveness  
o Appropriate monetary policy  
o Expanding the tax base  
o Promotion of enterprise and exports  
o Developing the tourism, agriculture and IT sectors.  
3.23.   There are also separate ongoing initiatives to enhance  the promotion of foreign investment, 
to promote Free Economic Zones, to develop public private partnerships and to create diaspora 
investment funds.  
Issues raised at the 2010 Review  
3.24.   This is the second Trade Policy Review since Armenia joined the WTO in 20 03. It was evident 
at the first review, completed in 2010, eight years ago, that Armenia had a policy of openness 
towards trade and investment, helped also by remittances from the Armenian Diaspora.  
3.25.   However, the challenges posed by the economic downturn i n 2008 exposed certain 
weaknesses in the Armenian economic model, notably the narrow export base, the dependence on 
remittances to cover the balance -of-payments deficit and unsustainable growth in the construction 
sector.  
3.26.   A key issue therefore was the nee d to reduce exposure to external and internal shocks through 
the diversification of the economy and of its export trade.  
3.27.   Secondly it was emphasized that economic reforms needed to continue with a focus on 
implementation of policies in addition to legislat ive and institutional reform.  
3.28.   In terms of WTO commitments, key issues to be addressed were:  
• Early accession to the Government Procurement Agreement.  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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  • The need to address a variety of procedural and regulatory requirements that might inhibit 
inward trade su ch as Rules of Origin, Customs Valuation, SPS and TBT measures and the 
discriminatory application of VAT.  
• Compliance with WTO agreements on intellectual property.  
3.29.   Undoubtedly, Members will want to revisit these elements in the forthcoming sessions.  
Armenia and Ireland  
3.30.   At this point, I hope you can indulge me if I compare briefly some common themes in the 
economic development of Armenia and my own country, Ireland.  
3.31.   There are a number of similarities and a number of similar staging points that have sha ped 
our development. These will include:  
• The specific challenges of being an island or a landlocked country;  
• A historic dependence on agriculture and construction;  
• A heavy trade dependence historically with a near neighbour;  
• An engaged diaspora;  
• A consci ous policy to opt for an economic model based on trade and investment;  
• An ongoing need to diversify trade and foster new technology -based enterprise to counter 
economy -wide shocks;  
• The need to forge partnerships among the international economic community;  
• Adhering to the world trade order and rules -based relationships with the rest of the trading 
world.  
• And finally, in that context, the importance of a strong, fully -functioning and effective global 
trading system.  
Challenges ahead  
3.32.   Reviewing the questions s ubmitted by Members, there are a number of themes that I expect 
to arise in our discussions.  
3.33.   In terms of the broad economic environment, there are questions around the stability of 
Armenia's currency and interventions in the market by the Central Bank, as well as the participation 
of women in the economy and in trade.  
3.34.   On trade issues, there are questions around the need to diversify exports of goods and 
services, the nature of measures to develop SMEs and supports to the agriculture sector.  
3.35.   There are a numb er of questions relating to the role of the EAEU in Armenia's trade policy.  
3.36.   On trading sectors, there are questions regarding agriculture development policies and on 
specifically in relation to illicit trade in tobacco.  
3.37.   On energy there are questions regard ing further liberalization in the sector and particularly 
on incentives to the geothermal sector.  
3.38.   On financial services there are concerns around the licensing and regulatory issues, 
particularly for the non -banking sector.  
3.39.   On tourism there are questions around certification and licensing of tourism entities.  
3.40.   There is also a range of questions on trade -related policy measures including intellectual 
property, government procurement, competition policy, Free Economic Zones, as  well as on 
measures in the areas of tariffs, anti -dumping, safeguards, export insurance and SPS.  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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Conclusion  
3.41.   In summary, Mr Chairman and Members, I believe that against a background of economic 
reforms aimed at continued export -led growth and liberalizatio n of the Armenian market, our focus 
will be on the practical effects of various measures rather than the policies per se , and designed to 
encourage Armenia to continue as a fully engaged Member of the world trading system.  
3.42.   In that context, I note the comme nts in the Armenian paper about the importance of technical 
assistance and, in particular, for training programmes in the area of world trade law. Thank You.  
  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBER S 
ICELAND  
4.1.  As the WTO report notes, since the last Review in 2010, economic g rowth has recovered from 
the severe downturn resulting from the global financial crises. Iceland welcomes the various 
initiatives and reforms that Armenia has undertaken in the review period, or is preparing currently 
to improve the business environment, a ttract investment with the goal of raising economic growth 
and making it more inclusive.  
4.2.  On the occasion of the 11th Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires last December, more than 
120 WTO Members and Observers launched a joint declaration on trade women's  economic 
empowerment that aims, inter alia,  at sharing best practices and working together here at the WTO 
to remove barriers for women's economic empowerment and increase their participation in trade. 
This declaration is the fruit of the Trade Impact Wor king Group that was established under the 
auspices of the International Gender Champions – Geneva, that Iceland is co -chairing with 
Sierra  Leone and the ITC.  
4.3.  The trade policy review provides an excellent opportunity to share best practices in this field. 
Iceland submitted advance written questions on the participation of women in the economy of 
Armenia, as well as on the initiatives that Armenia is undertaking on making economic growth more 
inclusive. We wish to thank Armenia for the responses to our writt en questions. We will review the 
answers thoroughly and request clarifications as necessary during the course of this TPR. The 
answers are very useful as we implement the joint declaration and gather best practices.  
4.4.  Iceland appreciates Armenia's active eng agement in the WTO and their continued support for 
the multilateral trading system. We wish the delegation of Armenia every success for their second 
Trade Policy Review.  
CHINA  
4.5.  We are pleased to see that since the first Trade Policy Review of Armenia in 2010, Armenia's 
economy has recovered from the 2008 global financial crises, with an average GDP growth of 4% 
though with some fluctuations in between. Especially in 2017, the real growth of GDP reached 7.5%. 
Furthermore, according to Asian Development Out look 2018 of Asian Development Bank, Armenia's 
GDP is expected to grow by 5.3% this year and 4.5% in 2019. Meanwhile, since the first Review of 
Armenia's trade policy, its inward FDI was consistently greater than outward FDI suggesting that 
Armenia is beco ming an attractive destination for investment. These positive signs make us more 
confident that Armenia has laid a good foundation for future sustainable development and economic 
growth. In this process, it has been well recognized that trade and investmen t played an important 
role in the above achievements. Therefore, we are encouraged by Armenia's continuing 
commitments to an open and liberal trade and investment regime and believe such efforts will help 
Armenia to achieve its Development Strategy 2014 -25. 
4.6.  Besides, we commend Armenia's strong support to the multilateral system and resistance to 
the unilateralism. We value the efforts by Armenia to ensure its laws, regulations and various 
measures to be compliant with its commitments in WTO. We welcome Arme nia's ratification and 
notification on the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), including its early implementation of some 
Category B provisions. We encourage Armenia to implement all the Category B provisions in an early 
date, and Category C as well when t echnical assistance is available. With another agreement which 
was reached in the recent years, that is Information Technology Agreement Expansion, we also see 
the value for Armenia. In Armenia's own report, it mentions that Armenia is considered as a hub for 
software development, industrial computing, electronics, and semiconductor production, and 
continues to be the regional leader in IT and high -tech. IT sector has made great contributions to 
Armenia's revenue and employment. We note that since some of E AEU members are already 
participants of ITA I, EAEU should have applied zero tariff rates for all the ITA I covered products. 
As accessing to the EAEU ，Armenia is supposed to have de facto already implemented ITA I. To 
unleash Armenia's great potential in I T sector and to let Armenia well engaged in the global value 
chain, we encourage Armenia to join the ITA I and to work together with other EAEU members for 
an early accession to the ITA Expansion.  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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4.7.  With regard to the bilateral trade, recent years have seen rapid growth in trade and investment 
between China and Armenia. According to China's statistics, the two -side trade reached 
USD 311 million from January to August 2018 and increased about 21.69% year on year. China has 
become Armenia's second largest tradi ng partner. China and EAEU signed the Agreement on 
Economic and Trade Cooperation on 17 May 2018. China believes this agreement will also enhance 
the China and Armenia bilateral trade and investment cooperation. However, due to Armenia's 
accession to the E AEU, it has resulted in an overall increase in tariffs and a more complex tariff 
structure. China has submitted the claim of interest and has been working with Armenia under GATT 
Article 28. We look forward to an early outcome in this regard.  
4.8.  Furthermore,  China will further promote cooperation with Armenia through the Belt and Road 
Initiative, strengthening synergy between the development strategies and boosting economic growth 
in the region.  
4.9.  To better understand the latest development in Armenia's trade policy, we have raised some 
questions regarding polices on agricultural and foreign investment. We appreciate the replies 
provided by Armenia and we would further study them.  
4.10.   To conclude, I wish this Review a complete success.  
UNITED  STATES  
4.11.   On behalf of th e United States, I would like to join others in warmly welcoming Deputy Minister 
Avanesyan and the rest of the delegation for this Trade Policy Review of Armenia. Nearly a decade 
has passed since Armenia's first review in 2010, and the Government has made significant changes 
to its economy, including its accession into the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) in 2015.  
4.12.   During its first TPR, Armenia was widely commended for its sectoral reforms and 
market -driven polices, which resulted in an improved business clima te and economic growth. 
Armenia was on the cusp of acceding to the Agreement on Government Procurement, its average 
applied tariff rate was among the lowest of WTO Members, and – as stated by the Secretariat – "in 
many areas, particularly in services, Arme nia's trade policies [were] more liberal than its WTO 
accession commitments".  
4.13.   In addition to these broad commendations, Members also highlighted a few areas in which 
additional efforts were needed to sustain this economic performance: tax policy reform, en forcement 
of intellectual property rights, and various improvements in the areas of SPS and TBT.  
4.14.   Armenia should continue to be encouraged since its last review; its persistent sectoral reforms 
and sound macroeconomic policies have remained largely successful, in particular a simplified tax 
code, improvements in its tax administration, and a redoubling of efforts to improve its business 
climate have all contributed to Armenia's respectable economic growth over the period of review. 
Furthermore, Unite d States would like to commend Armenia on becoming party to the Agreement 
on Government Procurement in 2011 and the revised agreement in 2015, and more recently, on 
Armenia's ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement in 2017.  
4.15.   The United States offer s our questions and comments on the Armenian trade regime in a 
constructive spirit, and we would like to thank the Armenian delegation in advance for considering 
and responding to them. We are particularly interested in better understanding the impact of 
membership in the EAEU on Armenia's authority and decision -making across a range of issues, 
including in the area of TBT and SPS measures. We look forward to understanding how Armenia 
defines the term "international standard," the process for determining co nformity assessment for 
EAEU technical regulations, and the status in Armenia of EAEU technical regulations that it has not 
yet notified to the WTO.  
4.16.   We urge Armenia to ensure prompt and full notification to WTO members of steps Armenia 
intends to take to m odify these measures. We also urge Armenia to recognize the WTO TBT 
Committee Decision on international standards, and we would welcome greater detail on how 
Armenia is managing these regulatory processes since joining the EAEU.  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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  4.17.   In addition, we seek clarif ication regarding the EAEU process for public consultations on draft 
technical regulations. Specifically, whether these consultations also take place regarding draft 
conformity assessment procedures and SPS measures; if interested parties from outside the EAEU 
are able to participate in the consultations; and if comments received during public consultation and 
comments received as a result of WTO notification are given equal consideration.  
4.18.   In the area of competition law, the United States requests more info rmation on Armenia's 
recent amendments to The Law on Protection of Economic Competition. Specifically, we would be 
grateful for more information on whether Armenia intends to further harmonize its Competition Law 
with that of the EAEU. In addition, the Uni ted States would welcome a more detailed explanation of 
how these amendments affect the selection of Members of the State Commission for the Protection 
of Economic Competition.  
4.19.   Finally, the United States also requests additional information concerning Arm enia's definitive 
dates for the implementation of provisions in the Trade Facilitation Agreement designated as 
Category B.   
4.20.   In closing, the United States appreciates the opportunity to participate in this review and 
provide constructive observations to a valued partner. We look forward to continued cooperation 
with Armenia and a deepening of our common interests. We also look forward to hearing of Armenia's 
continued success during its next Trade Policy Review.  
JAPAN  
4.21.   We appreciate the answers provided by A rmenia to our written questions on IPR issues. We 
encourage Armenia to develop a more solid foundation for protection and enforcement of IPR.  
4.22.   Eight years have passed since Armenia's last TPR in 2010. During that period, Armenia has 
developed a solid macroe conomic foundation supported by its trade and investment policy. 
Consequently, Armenia has achieved outstanding economic development with annual average 
growth of 4%, and notably over 7% growth in 2017.  
4.23.   Among many macroeconomic factors, trade is crucially important for Armenia's economy 
considering the fact that exports and imports of goods and services correspond to 87% of its GDP. 
In this regard, we appreciate Armenia's rapid increase in exports, especially of mining products and 
agricultural products suc h as cigarettes. This has definitely contributed to a decrease in current 
account deficits. Also, in terms of achieving a level playing field, it should be underscored that 
Armenia does not provide subsidies contingent on export performance.  
4.24.   In addition, we truly appreciate Armenia's achievement of an increase in net inward Foreign 
Direct Investment (FDI) while maintaining the balance of payments. This is attributed to the adoption 
of the Law on Free Economic Zones (FEZs) in 2011. Based on the law, Armenia  has provided various 
incentives to foreign investors, for example in the form of taxation measures to facilitate foreign 
investments to FEZs.  
4.25.   We therefore highly appreciate Armenia's trade and investment policy as a key enabler for its 
economic developme nt. At the same time, the heavy dependence of Armenia's economy on specific 
trading partners comes with a certain amount of risk. To this effect, we truly welcome Armenia's 
continuous efforts to pursue broader economic partnerships by acceding to the Euras ian Economic 
Union (EAEU) in 2015, implementing the EU -Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership 
Agreement (CEPA) in 2018 and concluding many FTAs.  
4.26.   Additionally, we appreciate Armenia's continuous efforts to submit notifications to the WTO 
regarding T BT and SPS measures. We believe that such efforts in the area of notification will 
definitely contribute to enhancing the predictability and transparency of Armenia's market and 
attracting foreign investments.  
4.27.   Furthermore, we appreciate Armenia's continuou s efforts on trade facilitation through 
introduction of the efficient single window system.  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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4.28.   In conclusion, we are sure that by observing its commitments to the WTO Armenia will be 
placed to continue pursuing open, transparent and non -discriminatory markets . We wish Armenia a 
successful and productive TPR, and look forward to hearing of further progress regarding its trade 
and investment policies at its next TPR.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.29.   The EU would like to start by highlighting some of the positive developments that  have 
emerged during the period under review.  
4.30.   Since Armenia's last TPR in 2010, macroeconomic stability has been significantly enhanced. 
We commend Armenia for its average GDP growth of 4.0% during the period 2010 -2017. The EU 
supports the implementation o f reforms in Armenia focusing on enhanced democracy, transparency, 
accountability and the rule of law, which should contribute to a better business environment.  
4.31.   We also welcome the encouraging statements and objectives of the new Armenian Cabinet to 
impro ve the business and investment climate. The EU is ready to support Armenia in its reform 
agenda. We look forward seeing these political commitments being translated into action in the near 
future.  
4.32.   We encourage Armenia to continue its constructive engagemen t with the WTO. In particular, 
we would commend Armenia for acceding to the Government Procurement Agreement (GPA) in 
2011, as well as having signed the revised GPA. Likewise, we welcome Armenia's ratification of the 
Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA).  
4.33.   Since Armenia's last TPR, there have been significant changes in the legal framework 
governing EU -Armenia trade relations. Since 1 June 2018, the EU -Armenia Comprehensive and 
Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA) entered into provisional application. This ag reement 
provides for a deepening of the political, economic and trade relations between Armenia and the EU. 
We expect the agreement to play an important role in further improving the business climate in 
Armenia, as well as creating a level playing field co nducive to foreign investment and jobs growth. 
We welcome Armenia's commitment to implement the Agreement effectively and to pursue an 
ambitious reform agenda.  
4.34.   The overall long -term trend in EU -Armenia bilateral trade is equally positive. Bilateral trade 
is increasing, and since the last TPR, the total amount of trade between the two sides increased from 
€816 million in 2010 to about €1.1 billion in 2017.  
4.35.   The EU assists Armenia's continued economic development. Armenia benefits from the EU's 
General Scheme of Preferences plus (GSP+) arrangement, and has a very high utilization rate of 
this scheme (around 93%). As a member of our Eastern Partnership, Armenia has also benefited 
from EU financial support, such as the €70 million of grants disbursed from the Nei ghborhood 
Investment Facility since 2014.  
4.36.   We also would like to underline some topics on which we encourage Armenia to improve the 
current situation, or to pay special attention to.  
4.37.   First, and whilst acknowledging that Armenia has been taking certain actio ns in this area since 
the last TPR, we encourage Armenia to continue diversifying its export base. For example, we note 
that Armenia's exports continue to be concentrated in the mining sector (in case of goods) and 
tourism (as far as services are concerned ). 
4.38.   Secondly, we have some specific concerns regarding government procurement. We are 
concerned about some legislative changes as a result of Armenia's EAEU accession, such as some 
harmonised EAEU blacklisting provisions, and their compatibility with the GP A. Likewise, we are 
afraid that legislative changes in 2018 might have weakened the independence of Armenia's 
Procurement Review Board.  
4.39.   Thirdly, the protection of intellectual property rights remains an important issue. We would 
like to see more effective enforcement and progress in Armenia's capacity -building in the protection 
of IPRs.  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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  4.40.   Finally, we note that cigarettes and other tobacco products manufacturing is becoming 
increasingly important for Armenian government revenue. In EU -Armenia trade relations, we have 
seen an important rise in cigarette exports. We encourage Armenia to continue its efforts to control 
and fight against illicit trade of tobacco products.  
4.41.   In conclusion, the EU encourages Armenia to proceed with its positive engagement with the 
multilateral trading system, and to further concretize initiatives that will improve its business and 
investment climate.  
4.42.   On behalf of the EU, I look forward to a constructive exchange of views during this review 
and I wish the delegation of Armenia the utmost  success during its second Trade Policy Review since 
joining the WTO in 2003.  
UKRAINE  
4.43.   We would like to highlight the good progress of Armenia's economy during the period under 
review as showed by its average annual growth of 4%, attributed to sound macroec onomic 
management and sectoral reforms. Ukraine believes that Armenia will maintain the growth 
momentum with further reforms and trade liberalization.  
4.44.   With reference to our bilateral relationship, Armenia is one of Ukraine's important trading 
partner. Our  bilateral trade in goods increased in the 2015 -17 period by 6,5% and in 2017 the trade 
turnover of goods amounted USD116,0 million. The composition of this trade is agricultural products, 
iron, electrical machinery and equipment, paper, pharmaceutical, ch emical and other industrial 
goods.  
4.45.   At present, our bilateral trade is carried out under free trade agreement provisions, which 
provide for the elimination of duties.  
4.46.   In this respect, we would like to underline some issues where we encourage Armenia to pay 
special attention.  
4.47.   In the context of the renegotiations of Armenia's WTO Schedule held due to its accession to 
the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), Ukraine is interested in further developing our trade relations 
based on free trade regime. On that subject, Ukraine asked Armenia to clarify the procedure for the 
territorial application of trade regime of the Eurasian Economic Union, in particular, the application 
of the common external tariff with the parties of free trade agreements.  
4.48.   Besides, to better unders tand the latest development of Armenia's trade policy, we submitted 
written questions in areas of agriculture, anti -dumping and safeguard measures, enforcement of 
intellectual property rights, financial services, further activities within the WTO on electr onic 
commerce and domestic regulation in services.  
4.49.   We appreciate the replies provided by Armenia to our questions.  
4.50.   However, we would like to draw attention to the application of trade defense measures on the 
territory of Armenia.  
4.51.   Ukraine is concerned with  Armenia's practice to avoid bearing responsibility for fulfilment of 
its commitments under the WTO trade remedies agreements. Membership in the EAEU and 
delegation of relevant competence to the Eurasian Economic Commission are used by Armenia as 
an excuse .  
4.52.   We understand the complexity of simultaneous participation in several international 
organizations, but strongly believe that Armenia will adhere to the WTO rules.  
4.53.   In conclusion, Ukraine encourages Armenia to continue its efforts to create favourable 
conditions for a sustainable pattern of economic growth and to implement the announced reforms.  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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4.54.   On behalf of Ukraine, we look forward to a constructive exchange of views in the course of 
this meeting and wish the delegation of Armenia the utmost success durin g its second Trade Policy 
Review.  
ARGENTINA  
4.55.   La Argentina observa con beneplácito que durante el período examinado la economía armenia 
haya tenido un crecimiento promedio del 4% anual con un notable desempeño en 2017. Argentina 
también conoce de fluctuacion es motivadas en factores externos, no obstante lo cual resaltamos la 
solidez de la gestión macroeconómica y las reformas sectoriales que apuntalaron el crecimiento 
antes referido.  
4.56.   Aunque sigan fuertemente concentradas, es destacable que las exportaciones d e mercancías 
se hayan duplicado con creces desde el último EPC (2010). Cuando analizamos las exportaciones de 
Armenia destinadas a América Latina, Argentina se ubica en el segundo puesto.  
4.57.   Pasando a las importaciones, observamos que en general no están suj etas a prohibiciones, 
contingentes o prescripciones en materia de licencias. A su vez, es dable destacar que las medidas 
OTC notificadas por Armenia no hayan sido objeto de preocupaciones comerciales específicas.  
4.58.   En materia de facilitación del comercio, va loramos los esfuerzos realizados por Armenia para 
implementar el Código Aduanero de la Unión Económica Euroasiática y las innovaciones que aporta 
en comparación al régimen anterior. Igualmente valorable resulta la buena posición de Armenia en 
la clasificac ión del Banco Mundial que mide la facilidad para hacer negocios.  
4.59.   Párrafo aparte, compartimos lo señalado en el informe de la Secretaría en el sentido de que, 
si bien Armenia ha logrado algunos avances en las cuestiones relacionadas con los Derechos de 
Propiedad Intelectual, sigue siendo necesario reforzar los mecanismos de cumplimiento.  
4.60.   A nivel bilateral, entre otros instrumentos, Argentina y Armenia suscribieron en 2014 un 
"Acuerdo intergubernamental sobre cooperación económica". Permítaseme también mencio nar que 
ese mismo año ambos países suscribieron un "Acuerdo intergubernamental sobre el libre ejercicio 
de actividades remuneradas por parte de familiares a cargo de funcionarios de las misiones 
diplomáticas y consulares".  
4.61.   Casi para concluir, en el marco de este examen de política comercial hemos presentado 
preguntas vinculadas a aranceles y medidas en frontera. Agradecemos las respuestas brindadas por 
Armenia, las cuales están siendo analizadas en Capital.  
4.62.   Al tiempo de reiterar nuestro reconocimiento por esta nueva oportunidad de intercambiar 
elementos de juicio y consideraciones sobre las políticas y prácticas comerciales de Armenia, 
permítanos señalar, una vez más, la relevancia de este ejercicio de transparencia en todos sus 
aspectos y desear a las auto ridades de Armenia una exitosa conclusión del presente examen.  
CANADA  
4.63.   Please allow me to join others in extending a warm welcome to the delegation of Armenia. 
Canada is pleased to participate in this trade policy review as we follow with interest Armenia's  
progress in the development and implementation of economic and legislative reforms. As was 
highlighted during the recent visit of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to Yerevan, on the 
margins of a successful Francophonie Summit for which we would like  to congratulate Armenia, 
Canada views Armenia as an important commercial and bilateral partner in the region. As an example 
of this importance, our leaders discussed their intention to begin talks on expanding air services 
between Canada and Armenia, whic h would facilitate travel, tourism, and trade, and strengthen the 
ties between the people in both countries.  
4.64.   Canada takes this opportunity to express its continued interest in supporting the ongoing 
transition in Armenia and in furthering trade cooperatio n, including in the area of corporate 
transparency and governance.  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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  4.65.   I would be remiss if I did not begin my comments by acknowledging the positive 
advancements the Armenian economy has made since its last trade policy review as it recovers from 
the 2009 global financial crisis; particularly in light of the fact that its transition to a market economy 
occurred just over 25 years ago.  In that regard, both the IMF and the World Bank have forecast 
positive growth in the near term and already in the first hal f of 2018, Armenia's GDP registered over 
an 8% year -on-year increase. Inflation remains low, the poverty rate is declining and as the 
Secretariat noted in its report, Armenia has made significant strides in enhancing its macroeconomic 
stability.  Moreover,  since Armenia's last trade policy review, its exports of goods have more than 
doubled in value.  
4.66.   I also believe it is important to acknowledge the large role trade plays in Armenia's economy, 
with trade in goods and services accounting for approximately 87 % of its GDP. In that regard, 
Canada fully supports the advances Armenia has made towards economic integration with countries 
of importance to Armenia and through agreements such as the Comprehensive and Enhanced 
Partnership Agreement it signed last year w ith the European Union.  
4.67.   I would like to commend Armenia for ratifying and acceding to the WTO Trade Facilitation 
Agreement. I would also note that further to notifying its A, B and C category commitments, Armenia 
has already implemented, according to the S ecretariat report, many of the B category commitments 
earlier than indicated in the notification.  
4.68.   Canada also recognizes Armenia's positive record of ensuring its goods transparency 
commitments to WTO Members are fulfilled. However, Canada would encourage Armenia to make 
special efforts to update its Import Licensing and Quantitative Restrictions notifications which have 
not been filed in several years. By doing so, Armenia is supporting the WTO's monitoring function 
and the ability of other members to unde rstand the policy actions taken by Armenia.  
4.69.   Canada notes that while Armenia has an overall liberal trade regime, the pace of necessary 
reforms has slowed down in recent years. This is reflected in Armenia's weak performance in three 
key categories that are  indicative of the types of obstacles to expanding trade Canadian companies 
have experienced in Armenia: ease of doing business, corruption and underdeveloped transportation 
links.   
4.70.   First, in 2018 Armenia fell 9 places in the World Bank's "ease of doing b usiness ranking", and 
eleven places on the Heritage Foundation "Index of Economic Freedom" both of which represent 
important measures of a country's business environment.  
4.71.   Second, Armenia has not shown any demonstrable improvement as it relates to transpar ency 
and corruption in recent years. On Transparency International's most recent "Corruption Perception 
Index", Armenia ranked 107th with a score of 35 out of 100; its average score over the past four 
years.  
4.72.   Finally, on the World Bank's LPI index, which me asures a countries performance of trade 
logistics, Armenia has shown little improvement with a ranking of 92 out of 160 countries and a 
score of 2.61 in 2018, only slightly better than its four -year average score of 2.51.  
4.73.   That being said, I am heartened by  the current Armenian Government's approach to these 
and other issues as Prime Minister Pashinyan has affirmed his commitment to enforce the rule of 
law and combat all forms of corruption, to increase competition, and to put in place programs and 
legislati on which will encourage companies to be socially and environmentally responsible, amongst 
others.  Additionally, Armenia is undertaking reforms towards changing its economic structure in 
order to strengthen Armenia's position as a leading technological cou ntry. 
4.74.   I would like to conclude my remarks by expressing Canada's support for these ongoing 
reforms. As Prime Minister Trudeau stated during his recent visit to Armenia, Canada hopes to work 
more closely with Armenia in advancing priorities and initiatives in support of gender equality, the 
empowerment of women and girls, and the strengthening of civil society and the democratic process 
– all of which we believe are critical components to creating a healthy and prosperous economy. 
Furthermore, Canada is comm itted to supporting Armenia's anti -corruption efforts by sharing best 
practices in Corporate Social Responsibility and to helping the country develop an environment more 
conducive to the attraction and retention of foreign trade and investment.  WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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4.75.   To further  advances these priorities and objectives, we would encourage Armenia to consider 
participating in the discussions supporting the different Joint Statement Initiatives and the Joint 
Declaration on Trade and Women's Economic Empowerment.  
4.76.   We have submitted written questions with respect to its mining code and mining sector 
development strategy, government procurement, agricultural import tariffs and the Eurasian 
Economic Union (EAEU), with a view to deepen our understanding of Armenia's trade and investment 
regime.  
4.77.   In conclusion, Canada wishes Armenia a very successful Trade Policy Review, and we look 
forward to a constructive exchange of views this week.  
THAILAND  
4.78.   In 2017, total trade value between Thailand and Armenia was USD20 million. Although the 
bilatera l trade is still relatively small, there is trade potential that can be explored. For exports from 
Thailand, such potential may exist in jewellery, rice, fish, machinery, and paper, while diamonds and 
jewellery can be considered potential exports from Arme nia. 
4.79.   Thailand would like to congratulate Armenia on its solid average annual economic growth of 
4% from 2010 to 2017, which was driven mainly by sound macroeconomic management and sectoral 
reforms.  
4.80.   Trade plays a significant role in Armenia's economy, amou nting to 87% of its GDP. However, 
due to a narrow export base in both goods and services, we would encourage Armenia to consider 
measures to increase and diversify exports of goods and services in order to reduce export instability 
arisen from inelastic an d unstable global demand.  
4.81.   Thailand welcomes Armenia's accession to the Eurasian Economic Union in 2015, which is 
expected to boost the demand for the Armenian agricultural output and improve technical 
regulations of Armenia.  
4.82.   Thailand commends the reforms t hat Armenia has undertaken to make the economy more 
competitive, which include the adoption of the Law on Free Economic Zones and the regulations to 
attract foreign investment and the modernization of the competition policy.  
4.83.   Thailand values Armenia's contr ibutions and commitments to the rules -based multilateral 
trading system. Up to May 2018, Armenia had submitted 92 notifications to the WTO on TBT 
measures. No specific trade concerns have been raised by other WTO Members about TBT measures 
taken by Armenia . In 2017, Armenia ratified and acceded to the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement 
and fulfilled its notification commitments under the Agreement. Moreover, Armenia has already 
implemented many of the B category commitments earlier than indicated in the notif ication.  
4.84.   In this review, Thailand submitted a few questions regarding the intellectual property rights. 
We would like to thank Armenia for timely responses to our questions and will study them in detail 
with great interest.  
4.85.   In conclusion, we wish Armenia every success in this Trade Policy Review.  
INDIA  
4.86.   The economy of Armenia has grown at an average rate of 4% since the last trade policy 
review in 2010. The growth rate has fluctuated ranging from 0.2% in 2013 to over 7% in 2017 
mainly due to commodity price s and external factors. Goods and services trade is equivalent to 87% 
of the GDP. The share of services sector in the GDP is also growing followed by other areas including 
agriculture, fisheries, forestry, manufacturing, construction and mining. Foreign di rect investment 
flows in areas like mining, communications, financial services, software and IT have also increased 
in recent years. Armenia's economy also faces challenges which include vulnerability to external 
shocks, limited natural resources, dependen ce on foreign remittances, a concentrated basket of 
exports, mainly to Russia and EU, and addressing infrastructural and development needs. We 
commend the Government of Armenia for the various measures it is taking to address the challenges WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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  under the Armen ian Development Strategy 2014 -25 which include improving business regulatory 
environment, modernising infrastructure and promoting foreign investments.  
4.87.   Armenia acceded to the Eurasian Economic Union in 2015 and is harmonizing its trade policies 
and extern al tariffs in line with the union. We find from the reports that accession to the union has 
led to an increase in tariff on many tariff lines for Armenia with the average applied tariff increasing 
from 2.7% to 7.5% and the percentage of non -ad valorem tari ff increasing from 0.5% to 13% 
compared to 2009. Armenia is currently engaged in negotiations with the WTO members to negotiate 
under Article XXIV and XXVIII of GATT with over 6500 tariff lines. We hope Armenia will conclude 
these negotiations at an early date.  
4.88.   India and Armenia share historic warm and friendly relations going back to several centuries 
of exchanges between both countries. In recent years, there have been regular political exchanges 
between India and Armenia. There is a broad institutional framework in place for strengthening 
relations between both countries including in the areas of trade and economic relations. Trade 
between Armenia and India which stood at USD33.91 million in 2017 -18 has fluctuated and 
decreased in the last few years. The re is, however, considerable potential to strengthen trade 
between both countries in areas including agricultural products, textiles, precious stones, 
pharmaceuticals, metals and minerals, machinery and other areas. We had posed some questions 
to Armenia f or the TPR and the responses, when received, would be examined by our authorities. 
We look forward to engaging with the authorities in Armenia to find ways for further promoting our 
trade and investments and to address the causes for the recent decline.  
4.89.   India also has an active development partnership cooperation with Armenia and has provided 
assistance in the areas of information technology education, setting up a tele -medicine project, IT 
labs and has provided other humanitarian assistance. For capacity building and human resources 
development, India is regularly offering scholarships to Armenian professionals under India's 
Economic and Technical Cooperation programme.   
4.90.   To conclude, we look forward to further strengthening our trade and investment relati ons with 
Armenia and wish the delegation of Armenia a productive and successful TPR.  
SINGAPORE  
4.91.   We note the growing role of trade in relation to Armenia's economy, as well as the positive 
economic developments that have taken place since Armenia's last TPR in 2010. In particular, from 
2010 to 2017, exports of goods from Armenia more than doubled in v alue to over USD2 billion, while 
annual GDP has grown at an average rate of 4% since 2010. We also welcome the initiatives that 
Armenia has launched to improve the business and investment environment, including its 
introduction of an open sky policy.   
4.92.   Armenia joined the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) in 2015. In this regard, Singapore looks 
forward to growing trade and investment links with Armenia, as we work towards concluding 
negotiations on a comprehensive EAEU -Singapore FTA.   
4.93.   We welcome Armenia's rat ification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement, as well as Armenia 
becoming a party of the Government Procurement Agreement and in acceding to the Revised 
Government Procurement Agreement. We encourage Armenia to become a party to the Information 
Technology  Agreement, and to ratify the Protocol amending the Agreement on Trade -Related 
Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS Agreement) soon, as well as to strengthen its 
framework for protecting intellectual property rights.   
4.94.   We note from the Secretaria t's report that there are some gaps in Armenia's record of WTO 
notifications, including in the areas of market access, import licensing, subsidies and countervailing 
measures, and agriculture (domestic support). We urge Armenia to fulfil its notification o bligations. 
Members' timely and complete notifications are crucial to the WTO's monitoring function, and 
contribute to the predictability and transparency of the international trading system.   
4.95.   Thank you, and we wish Armenia every success in its second Tra de Policy Review.  
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KYRGYZ  REPUBLIC  
4.96.   From the beginning of its membership to the WTO Armenia has demonstrated its highest 
dedication to the WTO rules and as it has been said in TPR of 2010, Armenia has convincingly shown 
its commitment to trade liberalizati on reforms under the multilateral trading system centered on the 
WTO.  
4.97.   The diplomatic relations between the Kyrgyz Republic and the Republic of Armenia were 
established in 1993, and since then our countries are closely collaborating bilaterally as well as 
multilaterally through the different global and regional platforms such as Eurasian Economic Union, 
Organization for Security and Co -operation in Europe, Commonwealth of Independent States and 
Collective Security Treatment Organization.  
4.98.   On the 12th of Augu st 2015 the Kyrgyz Republic became a full member of the EAEU joining 
Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation in further regional economic integration. 
Accession to Customs Union has opened a wide spectrum of opportunities to the Kyrgyz Repu blic for 
promotion of the Kyrgyz goods and services to markets of the Republic of Armenia and other 
member -states of the EAEU.  
4.99.   Membership of the Kyrgyz Republic and the Republic of Armenia in Eurasian Economic Union 
strengthens our trade and economic ties and explores new horizons for cooperation. The 4 pillars of 
the EAEU such as free movement of goods, services capital and natural persons create favourable 
ground for further integration of our economies.  
4.100.   The republic of Armenia accounts for a small share in trade turnover of the Kyrgyz Republic 
- 0,01% totally. During the period of 2015 -17, trade turnover of the Kyrgyz Republic has been 
increased at 3.9 times, including import – at 5.5 times, but export has been decreased by 14.7%.  
4.101.   In January -August 2018, Kyrgyzstan's trade turnover with Armenia comprised USD0,393 
million and, in comparison to similar period was decreased by 12%, where the volume of import was 
USD0,262 million and reduced by 39%, and the volume of export increased almost at 8 times and 
comp rised USD0,131 million.  
4.102.   Medicines account for basic share and different food products, electric appliances have small 
shares in import of the Kyrgyz Republic. Kyrgyzstan's exports to Armenia consist of beans and 
confectionary products.  
4.103.   The Kyrgyz Republi c has a capacity in export expansion of natural production such as honey, 
walnut, raisins, mushrooms, meet and others. Also, the services sector such as tourism and 
education give hope for further expansion of economic links.  
4.104.   The Kyrgyz Republic wishes a v ery successful Trade policy review to the delegation of 
Armenia.  
BRAZIL  
4.105.   Brazil is pleased to take part in the second Trade Policy Review of Armenia. In the period 
under review, the Armenian economy has grown by an average of 4% each year. The appropriate 
macroeconomic management and sectoral reforms adopted by the Armenian government 
contributed to this economic expansion.  
4.106.   On a less positive note, the accession of the country to the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) 
in 2015 has resulted in increases in tariffs  on many tariff lines. Compared to 2009, the applied 
average tariff has increased from 2.7% to 7.5%.  
4.107.   Let me now turn to our bilateral relations, which can be traced back to the arrival of the first 
Armenians to the southeast of Brazil in the second half of  the nineteenth century. Today, the 
Armenian community in Brazil is estimated in around 100.000 people.  
4.108.   In 2017, bilateral trade flows totalled USD24.7 million. The average of bilateral trade flows 
in the last ten years is around USD30 million. Brazilian e xports to Armenia are basically made up of WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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  agricultural products, such as sugar and tobacco. Armenian exports to Brazil are mainly composed 
by textiles. We then believe that there are opportunities for diversification and that our bilateral 
trade relations  have a clear potential for growth.  
4.109.   Brazil will continue to follow with interest domestic developments in Armenia regarding its 
trade policy. Let me conclude by wishing the delegation of Armenia a successful Trade Policy Review.  
KAZAKHSTAN  
4.110.   Kazakhstan welco mes Armenia's policies, that allowed to recover economic growth from the 
global financial crisis of 2009 and achieve 4% growth on average during the last 8 years. It is 
important to note that over the years the share of industry and services continued to g row, with the 
latter becoming the largest contributor to GDP in 2017. We are confident that the Armenian 
Government is well set to maintain sustainable economic growth in the future.  
4.111.   Armenia is long time trade and economic partner of Kazakhstan. In 2006, K azakhstan and 
Armenia signed an Agreement on Mutual Protection and Encouragement of Investment, which 
entered into force in 2010. Over the past years Kazakhstan has invested more than USD56 million 
in Armenian economy. There are 202 legal entities and repr esentatives with Armenian participation 
operating in Kazakhstan.  
4.112.   Our countries are actively cooperating in the area of transport and transit. Starting from 
2007 our Governments have enacted the Agreement on international road traffic providing for an 
authorization free system of organizing international road transport.  
4.113.   Within the framework of the Eurasian Economic Union Kazakhstan and Armenia are 
cooperating in the area of technical regulation. In 2001, a bilateral Agreement was concluded on 
cooperation in the field of standardization, metrology, certification and accre ditation.  
4.114.   For an adequate utilization of the benefits provided by the EAEU, Kazakhstan sees potential 
in bilateral trade growth in such goods like chemicals, machines, equipment, tools, metal products, 
products of animal and vegetable origin, prepared food  products.  
4.115.   Armenia is an important partner for Kazakhstan and I believe that there is a bright future 
for further enhancing trade and economic cooperation trough the instruments of the EAEU.  
4.116.   I would like to wish to the delegation of Armenia a successful Trade Policy Review.  
PARAGUAY  
4.117.   Notamos con beneplácito los desarrollos positivos de la economía de Armenia, cuya 
economía ha presentado un crecimiento promedio de 4% en los últimos años, atribuible a una 
gestión macroeconómica sólida y a las reformas sector iales. Quisiéramos destacar la Estrategia de 
Desarrollo de Armenia 2014 -2025, que recoge las políticas nacionales de comercio, economía e 
inversión con miras a eliminar los obstáculos al comercio, modernizar la infraestructura y promover 
la inversión extra njera; y la adopción de su nuevo Código Aduanero a inicios de este año, como 
componentes que ayudaran a Armenia a avanzar en su crecimiento y desarrollo.  
4.118.   La Republica del Paraguay comparte con Armenia la particular condición de ser un país en 
desarrollo s in litoral (PDSL), situación geográfica que genera desafíos particulares. Los altos costos 
de transporte y la falta de infraestructura adecuada son obstáculos para la interrogación efectiva de 
los PDSL a los mercados mundiales. En este sentido nos gustaría  destacar algunos puntos de los 
informes examinados el día de hoy en materia de conectividad e infraestructura, facilitación al 
comercio y transformación de su economía, que a su vez coinciden con algunas de las prioridades 
establecidas en el Programa de V iena para Países en Desarrollo sin Litoral.  
Conectividad e infraestructura  
4.119.   Debido a su condición de PDSL, la exportación de productos a los mercados extranjeros debe 
realizarse por tierra en la mayoría de los casos. Como bien identifica el Informe de la Secretaría, la WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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economía de Armenia depende en gran medida del tránsito intern acional y del acceso 
transfronterizo.  
4.120.   Familiarizados con esta problemática, tenemos particular interés en la Estrategia de 
Desarrollo del Sector del Transporte desarrollada por Armenia, que busca maximizar los resultados 
del sector del transporte para 202 0 y prevé alcanzar una situación de prosperidad a largo plazo 
mediante el establecimiento de infraestructuras y servicios de transporte eficientes, rentables y 
ecológica y socialmente sostenibles y deseamos a Armenia el mejor de los éxitos en su 
implementa ción.  
Facilitación al comercio  
4.121.   Podemos ver también de acuerdo con los informes, que Armenia ha facilitado el comercio 
mediante la apertura de ventanillas de autodeclaración en los puestos y depósitos aduaneros, la 
adquisición de nuevo equipo para mejorar las operaciones en la frontera y la introducción de un 
sistema de gestión del riesgo e instamos a Armenia a establecer su Comité Nacional de Facilitación 
al Comercio a la mayor brevedad posible y creemos que la asistencia que podrá brindarle la 
Secretaria en esta labor será fundamental para su pronto y exitoso establecimiento.  
4.122.   Quisiéramos aprovechar esta oportunidad para alentar a los donantes a brindar asistencia 
técnica y financiera a Armenia, tal como fue solicitado por ese país, para poder cumplir punt ualmente 
los compromisos de la categoría C asumidos en virtud del Acuerdo sobre Facilitación del Comercio 
de la OMC.  
Transformación estructural  
4.123.   La transformación estructural de la economía es uno de los objetivos más difíciles de alcanzar 
para los PDSL per o también uno de los más importantes, pues la transformación estructural ayuda 
a los países a reducir su dependencia en ciertas exportaciones y su vulnerabilidad a los shocks 
externos.  
4.124.   Notamos con satisfacción los cambios en la estructural sectorial de la  economía de Armenia 
en los últimos años, con un incremento gradual del sector industrial.  
4.125.   En nombre de mi país, reitero mis felicitaciones a quienes tienen a su cargo la conducción 
de este Examen y a los delegados de la Misión Permanente de Armenia en Gi nebra, por su 
contribución a los trabajos de esta Organización.  
URUGUAY  
4.126.   El informe de la Secretaría, en coincidencia con el informe del Gobierno de Armenia, nos ha 
permitido tomar conocimiento de la importancia de la Estrategia de Desarrollo de Armenia par a 
2014-2025, cuya finalidad es mejorar el entorno normativo para las empresas, velar por que los 
regímenes exteriores sean favorables, eliminar los obstáculos al comercio, modernizar la 
infraestructura y promover la inversión extranjera.  
4.127.   En esta estrategia  2014 al 2025 se plasman objetivos de las políticas nacionales de comercio, 
economía e inversión y, con gran satisfacción pudimos notar que el Gobierno de Armenia atribuye 
especial importancia a las pequeñas y medianas empresas.  
4.128.   Nos gustaría destacar que a lgunas de las prioridades del programa de trabajo del Gobierno 
y los principios rectores de la estrategia nacional de desarrollo económicos apuntan a resolver los 
principales desafíos de la economía y de sus diversos operadores económicos.  
4.129.   En particular, d estacamos los esfuerzos para la promoción de la competitividad y la buena 
gestión empresarial, así como la creación de las condiciones necesarias para el desarrollo de un 
sector privado que se rija por una gestión eficiente, responsable y transparente.  
4.130.   Respecto a las políticas e iniciativas adoptadas, el Gobierno de Armenia se ha focalizado en 
factores importantes, como la creación de condiciones equitativas para todas las empresas, la 
eliminación de la economía sumergida y la garantía del estado de derecho . WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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  4.131.   Asimismo, Uruguay destaca las iniciativas para la transformación y la modernización de las 
industrias tradicionales, el impulso de las industrias incipientes, el estímulo de la innovación, el 
fomento y desarrollo de zonas remotas, así como la mejora de l a competitividad de las pequeñas y 
medianas empresas.  
4.132.   Para terminar, Uruguay, desde su rol de coordinador general de la iniciativa sobre Mipymes 
no podía dejar pasar la oportunidad de destacar los esfuerzos y el apoyo del Gobierno de Armenia a 
su sector de  Mipymes.  
4.133.   Uruguay le desea a Armenia el mayor de los éxitos en su examen de políticas comerciales.  
TAJIKISTAN  
4.134.   The Tajik -Armenian partnership is now on its new level of development. The main feature is 
the further expansion of trade relations, implementation of joint socio -economic projects and 
deepening cooperation in different areas of economy.  
4.135.   The summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Commonwealth of Independent States' 
took place recently in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Among other high -level participants, the Prime Minister 
of Armenia has participated in and on the margin of this summit the parties have exchanged views 
on issues of CIS cooperation.  
4.136.   As the trade relations' indicators are not significant, the relevant measures are being tak en 
in order to strengthen and raise the trade turnover between two countries.  
4.137.   Here, I would like to point out number of important areas of cooperation between Tajikistan 
and Armenia, including energy, agriculture, information and telecommunication, transpo rt and 
communication infrastructure, and tourism and so on.  
4.138.   This second Trade Policy Review of Armenia is an excellent opportunity to deepen our 
understanding of its trade regime.  
4.139.   Here, I would like to highlight some key developments of the economy. Since  early 2000's 
till the Global Financial Crisis, the Armenian economy was rapidly expanding: the average Gross 
Domestic Product (hereinafter GDP) growth during the mentioned period reached to 11.3%. After 
the global financial crisis, the country's economy b egan to recover rapidly with an annual average 
of 4% of real GDP growth. In 2017, the real growth of GDP reached 7.5%. The economic growth in 
2017 was mostly driven by the growth in services (12.4%) and industry (6.6%). The agriculture 
sector declined by 5 .3%.  
4.140.   Armenia has eight bilateral free trade agreements in force: including with Republic of 
Tajikistan. Armenia benefits from the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences plus (GSP+) 
arrangement.  
4.141.   Armenia as an active Member of the WTO has taken commitment t o improve trade facilitation 
processes. Armenia ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and deposited its instrument of 
acceptance of the Protocol in 2017. In accordance with Articles 15 and 16 of the TFA, Armenia 
notified provisions for implementa tion under Categories A, B, and C.  
4.142.   In the framework of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, Armenia is reviewing the 
international best practice for the purpose of creating a national trade facilitation committee in 
accordance with the requirements of th e WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
4.143.   Armenia acceded to the WTO Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA 1994) signed 
and acceded to the WTO Revised Agreement on Government Procurement (revised GPA).  
4.144.   Armenia is not a party to the Information Technology Ag reement (ITA) and has yet to accept 
the Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement.  
4.145.   My delegation acknowledges Armenia's continued efforts to improve the business 
environment and facilitate foreign trade. We are confident that by its active participation Armeni a WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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will remain committed to maintain the core values of the WTO and continue to support the 
development and expansion of multilateral trading system.  
4.146.   In conclusion I wish Armenia a very productive and successful Trade Policy Review.  
GEORGIA  
4.147.   At the outset, Georgia wishes to underline the fruitful and amicable relations existing 
between our two states, and wishes to highlight the mutually beneficial cooperation, which yields 
productive developments.  
4.148.   Since the last Report in 2010, despite the s evere economic downturns resulting in world 
economic crisis, Armenia showcased significant recovery with GDP increasing to about 
USD11.5  million in 2017. These positive developments were preconditioned by Armenia's sound 
macroeconomic management and sector al reforms.  
4.149.   Georgia applauds Armenia's endeavour in introducing innovative approaches and projects in 
almost every sector of economy including transport, customs facilitation, tourism development and 
other important areas.  
4.150.   Agriculture continues to play a  vital role in Armenia's economic growth as a source for the 
expansion of exports. Number of agricultural support programmes have been initiated and important 
strategic documents elaborated.  
4.151.   Georgia wishes to particularly underline a Comprehensive and Enh anced Economic 
Partnership Agreement which Armenia signed with the European Union in 2017. We encourage 
Armenia's desire in establishing stronger economic ties with the European Union and assure our 
support in sharing Georgia's experience in this direction .  
4.152.   Today, Georgia and Armenia enjoy the free trade regime under bilateral and multilateral 
formats. Over the years, we could see increasing trends in trade and economic activities. Armenia 
traditionally takes the front positions in Georgia's trade partner countries. Trade turnover between 
two states increased by 24% according to the latest data, estimating USD450 million. Export from 
Georgia to Armenia has grown significantly by 35% and amounted to USD200 million, where the 
main export commodities are autom obiles, heavy machinery, nuts, oil products, fertilizers and 
others.   
4.153.   Import from Armenia has increased by 17% as well, reaching USD250 million. It is mainly 
based on the commodities like copper ores and concentrates, glass, medicaments and other 
products . 
4.154.   We are delighted to see the continued developing trends in the context of economic and 
political relations and will take all the possible efforts to retain this positive path.  
4.155.   We wish the Republic of Armenia a very successful review.  
RUSSIAN  FEDERATION  
4.156.   Historically, Russia and Armenia have close ties. Our peoples have lived alongside by 
centuries. Cultural, humanitarian, religious, economic interaction is expanding.  
4.157.   Armenia is a member of the Eurasian Economic Community. As such, a free movement of 
goods is applied between Yerevan and EAEU's Member States, as well as a common regime for trade 
in goods with third parties is applied by Armenia together with the EAEU's Member States. Armenia 
is also a party to the Free Trade Area Agreement of the CIS States a nd has a status of a dialogue 
partner in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.  
4.158.   We commend Armenia for ratifying WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
4.159.   The Russian Federation and the Republic of Armenia have a long history of friendly relations, 
which have always been featured by broad and progressing bilateral cooperation across vast WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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  economic, trade and investment areas. Our two countries also maintain c lose cooperation within the 
Eurasian Economic Union with regards to WTO -related issues.  
4.160.   Russia is pleased to see Armenia's solid economic results, as the economy has grown by 
25% since the last TPR in 2010, and the GDP growth in 2017 exceeded 7%.  
4.161.   Armenia i s an important trading partner for Russia. In 2017 the bilateral turnover increased 
by 30% in comparison to 2016 and reached 1.74 billion dollars. The share of Russia in the total trade 
turnover of Armenia is 28%, which makes it Armenia's leading trade par tner. Russia's export is 
USD1.17 billion, and our imports from Armenia amounted to USD541 million. The main products of 
Russia's exports to Armenia are natural gas (26%), mineral oils (13%), machinery, cereals, 
aluminum (6 to 8%). Russia imports from Armen ia mostly beverages (37%), apparel (13%) and 
furniture (7%).  
4.162.   Russia also holds the position of the main foreign investor in the economy of Armenia, with 
accumulated investment of USD1.8 billion.  
4.163.   Our bilateral economic and political cooperation stands on a solid legal base. More than 
270 interstate, inter -governmental and interagency treaties and agreements have been signed 
between Moscow and Yerevan. Over 70 regions of the Russian Federation are involved into bilateral 
cooperation with Armenia.  
4.164.   Let me give some specific examples of successful bilateral cooperation. Since 2017, Russian 
payment system "Mir" has been maintained on the territory of Armenia and Armenian payment 
system "ArCa" — in the Russian Federation. It is the first project of this kind in the  EAEU territory.  
4.165.   Russia is a key partner of the Armenian Government in the development and modernization 
of energy infrastructure. In 2013 the fifth block of a large Razdan Power Station was put into 
commercial operation.  
4.166.   Russia also modernizes the railway  infrastructure of Armenia. The volume of investment in 
this area has reached USD100 million.  
4.167.   The level of humanitarian ties can be figured by considering the number of Armenian citizens 
living in Russia — over 650 thousand, with total population of Armeni a of 2.9 million. However, in 
reality, the Armenian diaspora in Russia is by far larger than these estimates, as a lot of Armenian 
nationals have Russian citizenship.  
4.168.   Humanitarian ties are the cornerstone of our economic relations. We believe that remittan ces 
from Russia, which amount to nearly USD1 billion per year, play a meaningful role for the Armenian 
economy.  
4.169.   We wish partners from Armenia a successful Trade Policy Review.  
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5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF ARMENIA  AND ADDITIONAL COMM ENTS  
5.1.  I would like to extend my appreciation to you, Ambassador Ihara, and you, Mr. Gaffey, for your 
thoughtful insights and remarks. I want to also thank all the Members and Observers that 
participated in the first day of the TPR of Armenia, and particularly to the 19 Membe rs that provided 
statements during the first day for their warm welcomes and wishes, as well as the constructive 
comments and observations.  
5.2.  The majority of the statements were on a positive note, commending Armenia for its economic 
advancement and improvem ent of the trade policy since the first TPR of Armenia, for the sound 
macroeconomic management and sectoral reforms, efforts to improve the business environment, 
including the simplification of the Tax Code and improving the tax administration, not providi ng 
subsidies contingent on export performance, working towards expanding bilateral economic relations 
and economic integration, active engagement in the WTO, commitment to core values of rules -based 
multilateral trading system, acceding to the Government P rocurement Agreement, etc., all of which 
have contributed for Armenia to become an attractive destination for trade and investment. Many 
delegates indicated that they see significant potential for the increase in trade and the expansion of 
economic relatio ns between Armenia and their respective countries.  
5.3.  Nevertheless, a few points of concern were raised by the Members in their statements which I 
would like to address.  
5.4.  The suggestion for Armenia's more active engagement in WTO processes was made by several 
WTO Members during the first day, specifically by joining the Information Technology Agreement, 
Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement, as well as different Joint Statement initiatives and the 
Joint Declaration on Trade and Women's Economic Empowerment. I w ould like to reassure Members 
that Armenia closely follows the developments in WTO, and the question of joining various initiatives 
and agreements are in the process of ongoing internal discussions.  
5.5.  Several Members voiced concerns over Armenia's narrow exp ort base and the need to increase 
and diversify exports of goods and services to reduce risks from external shocks. The issue of 
diversification of exports is one of the priorities of the Government of Armenia, and we are taking 
active steps to address the  issue. Moreover, Armenia is actively engaged with international partners 
towards strengthening bilateral and plurilateral trade relations and economic integration.  
5.6.  Members also raised their concerns over the increase of the average tariffs and a more comp lex 
tariff structure of Armenia resulting from its accession to the EAEU. I would like to mention here that 
Armenia entered into GATT Article 24 and 28 negotiations with WTO Members that have been 
affected by the increase of tariffs to provide equivalent c ompensations. Furthermore, the accession 
to the EAEU resulted also in the decrease of applied tariffs for a number of goods, which will create 
new trade opportunities.  
5.7.  Concerns were expressed regarding the gaps in the WTO notifications record of Armenia in  a 
few areas. Please be assured that Armenia is committed to the rules based multilateral trading 
system and sees the transparency of the system as one of its vital components. We will do our best 
to fill the gaps as soon as possible.  
5.8.  The United States we re interested in the status of Armenia's notification of the definitive dates 
for implementation of its TFA Category B commitments, and Paraguay encouraged Armenia to 
establish the National Trade Facilitation Committee as soon as possible. I would like to inform that 
the relevant notification has been submitted to the WTO Secretariat for circulation among WTO 
Members in early November, while regarding the Committee, Armenia is holding internal discussions 
and consultations to figure out the best possible ap proach in setting up the National Committee. As 
mentioned in Armenia's TPR report, any assistance in this regard would be greatly appreciated and 
I thank Paraguay for also emphasizing this issue.  
5.9.  Armenia took note of Canada's concerns regarding the slowing  down of reforms, weak 
performance or no advancement in ease of doing business, corruption and underdeveloped 
transportation as evidenced by the researches of several international organizations. Armenia is 
dedicated to promoting the business environment a nd to advancing transparency, accountability and 
the rule of law as can be seen from the TPR reports. We hope, in fact we are assured, that the WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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  ongoing processed in the mentioned directions initiated by the Government of Armenia will result in 
significant improvement.  
5.10.   I would like to also separately address the concerns raised by Ukraine that Armenia 
perceivably avoids bearing responsibility for fulfilment of its commitments under the WTO trade 
remedies agreements. The TPR mechanism is valuable in that it p rovides opportunities to express 
the drawbacks Members perceive in the trade policies of other Members, and we thank Ukraine for 
utilizing this opportunity. However, I would like to address Ukraine's concerns by stating that 
Armenia, while being an EAEU me mber and applying common trade defence measures within the 
EAEU, is a sovereign WTO Member and holds full responsibility for all its actions in accordance with 
the relevant WTO Agreements.  
5.11.   Armenia took note of the highlights and summaries of the written qu estions that several 
Members presented during the first day. Given the extensive nature of most of the questions and to 
allow for a more targeted and constructive exchange, I would like to encourage Members to analyse 
the provided answers and submit any ad ditional or follow -up questions in accordance with the TPR 
procedures. Additionally, if Members consider that Armenia has not satisfactorily addressed their 
concerns raised during the first day, I encourage them to submit written questions and we stand 
ready to provide the necessary information as soon as possible.  
5.12.   To conclude, I would like to once again thank everyone present here for participating in the 
second TPR of Armenia, which I am glad to say I consider to be a success.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.13.   Without doubt, the tenor of comments and questions in this room on the first day of the Trade 
Policy Review of Armenia reflected an extremely positive overall reaction to Armenia's economic 
development policies, and their impact since the last review in 2010.  
5.14.   Most interv entions acknowledged the effective economic management since the period of 
financial crisis, the strong GDP growth over the review period, the strong trade and investment 
performance and the continuing economic reforms, particularly in the areas of tax, co mpetition and 
banking regulation.  
5.15.   There was recognition of Armenia's strategic engagement with neighbours and partners, 
through its accession to the EAEU, and through the signing of the CEPA with the European Union, as 
well as through continuing engagement  with free trade partnership arrangements and bilateral 
investment treaties.  
5.16.   There was acknowledgement of Armenia's continuing commitment to the WTO, its efforts to 
meets its obligations and its increasing level of obligation notably in terms of the Govern ment 
Procurement Agreement and the Trade Facilitation Agreement. Many delegations noted in particular 
the improved customs procedures arising from EAEU accession.  
5.17.   So, the general thrust of the review, as evidenced by the interventions of a large number and  
wide range of Members, was to encourage Armenia to stay on the path of trade and investment 
openness, to diversify its export markets and sectors, and to develop economic partnerships within 
the spirit of the multilateral trading system.  
5.18.   I would note that  many Members thanked Armenia for the replies they had received to their 
written questions and promised to study them, and to revert, if necessary.  
5.19.   Within that context, Members identified a number of areas on which Armenia might focus into 
the future, with  a view to strengthening their trade potential and impact.  
5.20.   A number of Members raised questions around the impact of EAEU membership on various 
trade policies and measures. These include: market access; domestic subsidies; notifications to the 
WTO; on Gove rnment Procurement policy; Trade Defence Instruments; definitions of international 
standards; consultations on SPS measures; intellectual property enforcement; competition policy; 
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5.21.   In the context of EAEU memb ership, Members urged Armenia to complete its negotiations 
with fellow Members to compensate for the changes in tariff rates and structures as a result of 
accession. In its statement to the meeting, Armenia committed to doing so.  
5.22.   I am sure that this broad area of EAEU membership. and its effect on Armenian trade policies 
and measures, is an issue that Members will want to see a focus on into the future and to seek 
evidence that this regional agreement contributes both to greater market access for its own 
membership, but also for fellow WTO Members.  
5.23.   Moving on to other areas of concern, while welcoming accession to the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement, Members urged Armenia to complete the implementation of the provisions under the 
various categories, as quickly as possible.  
5.24.   Members encouraged Armenia to join the WTO Information Technology Agreement in light of 
the development and the potential of the country's IT sector. In the same context, Members similarly 
encouraged Armenia to engage fully in the WTO negotiat ions on e -commerce trade.  
5.25.   Some Members suggested that Armenia would benefit from joining the WTO Joint Declaration 
on Trade and Women's Economic Empowerment.  
5.26.   While there was general recognition of Armenia's improved rankings in various international 
busin ess environment tables, there was reference to the need to be vigilant in relation to the ease 
of doing business, on trade logistics and on transparency and corruption.  
5.27.   In the context of diversification of the Armenian economy, many Members suggested secto rs 
and markets in which bilateral engagement with them might prove fruitful, and I have no doubt that 
Armenian officials will have taken careful note of those suggestions.  
5.28.   Finally, a number of Members looked forward to the next review of Armenian Trade Pol icy and 
to evidence of further reforms, continuing openness to trade and investment and further integration 
into the WTO rules -based trade system.  
5.29.   Finally, I would like to thank Minister Avanesyan and his delegation and to wish them all the 
best in their w ork leading the economic development of Armenia. Thank you.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.30.   Let me first thank the delegation of Armenia for a comprehensive overview presented last 
Tuesday and this morning of the main developments which occurred during the review period.  
5.31.   The EU is pleased to note that this review has been very useful for better understanding the 
trade policy of Armenia and hopes that Armenia will take into account some of the few challenges 
highlighted by Members.  
5.32.   The EU also appreciates the replies provide d to the EU questions. We have submitted one 
follow -up question related to Armenia's request for clarification on one of our question on 
government procurement which we have provided hopefully and we look forward for the reply in 
due time.  
5.33.   In conclusion, t he EU would like to thank Armenia for its very constructive participation in this 
exercise.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.34.   The United States would very much like to thank the entire delegation of Armenia for your 
presence here today, and to express appreciation for the ser ious and thoughtful work which has 
gone into preparation for this Trade Policy Review. We also greatly value the astute insights received 
from Ambassador Gaffey and, as always, the expert contributions of the Secretariat.  
5.35.   We would also like to express than ks for the constructive discussion on both days of this TPR 
and the detailed responses provided to our many previously submitted questions; our authorities in WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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  Washington are studying everything closely. The United States also submitted several follow -up 
questions overnight; without going into detail at this moment, those follow -up questions center on 
notification procedures and implementation of the WTO TBT Committee Decision on International 
Standards.  
5.36.   We appreciate the summary of issues given here today, and have taken good note of topics 
raised of both widespread and particular importance, including those related to macroeconomic 
concerns, vulnerability to external shocks, the need for diversification of exports, landlocked country 
issues, and remittances . The United States is seeking to understand the full implications of Armenia's 
accession to the Eurasian Economic Union, including tariff concerns. In addition, our authorities will 
be carefully following progress in trade facilitation efforts, improvemen t of the business environment, 
intellectual property protection, and infrastructure development.  
5.37.   The United States deeply values our bilateral relationship with Armenia. We share deep 
historical and cultural ties; in fact, hundreds of thousands of American s proudly claim Armenian 
heritage. The United States was very glad to establish the Trade and Investment Framework 
Agreement with Armenia in recent years, and we look forward to close and continuing joint efforts 
to build strong bilateral economic ties. We  also look forward to ongoing cooperation in many other 
areas of endeavour such as energy development, reduction of corruption, and fruitful educational 
exchanges.  
5.38.   In closing, we would like to congratulate Armenia's team on a successful second TPR and look  
forward to the delegation's continued active engagement in the work of the WTO. Please accept our 
best wishes.  
AFGHANISTAN  
5.39.   Afghanistan congratulates Armenia's 2nd trade policy review meeting and extends its warmest 
welcome to the Armenian delegation heade d by H.E. Mr. Avag Avanesyan.  
5.40.   Since it is our first participation in Armenia's TPR, we would like to thank you Mr. Chair, 
Mr. discussant and the Secretariat for convening this meeting. We also want to extend our 
congratulation to Ambassador Mr. Tigran Davt yan for his leadership and constant good work at the 
WTO.  
5.41.   My delegation commends the Government of Armenia presenting its comprehensive trade 
policy report, and supports the positive development and progress Armenia has made to improve 
and upgrade its inst itutional and legal frameworks through conducting intensive reforms and 
adopting its public and business capacities.  
5.42.   Armenia is an important partner of Afghanistan, we highly value the bilateral trade and 
cooperation between Armenia and Afghanistan, and ap preciate all the support that we have received 
from the Armenian Government during the reconstruction of Afghanistan since 2002 and, in 
particular, during Afghanistan's accession to the WTO.  
5.43.   I would like to end my statement by wishing the esteemed delegati on of Armenia a successful 
and productive Trade Policy Review.  
MR. AVAG  AVANESYAN  (HEAD  OF DELEGATION)  
5.44.   I believe that this exercise was extremely important for us and, once again, I would like to 
extend our thanks to all the Members who were present and ex pressed interest in Armenia as a 
country and our trade and economic policies in particular.  
5.45.   I would once again like to thank the WTO Secretariat, you Mr. Ambassador and Mr. Gaffey for 
valuable comments and insights. We believe that some of those will shape  our trade policy in the 
future. Once again, Members, thank you so much for being present here.  
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6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  This second Trade Policy Review of Armenia has offered us a good opportunity to deepen our 
understanding of recent devel opments in, and challenges to, its trade and investment policies. I 
would like to thank the delegation from Armenia, led by Mr. Avag Avanesyan, Deputy Minister of 
Economic Development and Investment, for their constructive engagement throughout this exerci se. 
I would also like to thank our discussant, Ambassador Michael Gaffey, Permanent Representative of 
Ireland to the WTO, for his stimulating, analytical observations, as well as the 20  delegations which 
took the floor, for their active participation in th is Review.  
6.2.  Members noted Armenia's improvement in its economic and trade performance since its first 
review in 2010, in particular its recovery from the 2008 global financial crisis with an average annual 
4% GDP growth rate, albeit with some fluctuations. Members recognized that Armenia's economy 
was characterized by low inflation, declining poverty and significant progress in enhancing its 
macroeconomic stability in which trade in goods and services, which is the equivalent of 87% of 
GDP, played a growing role.  
6.3.  While commending Armenia for these achievements, Members also noted the challenges 
remaining in some areas, including the country's vulnerability to external shocks and the need to 
step up efforts to diversify the narrow production and export base w hich continues to be 
concentrated in the mining and tourism sectors and reliant on a limited number of trading partners.  
6.4.  Members therefore welcomed Armenia's efforts to pursue broader economic partnerships by 
acceding to the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU)  in 2015, to the EU -Armenia Comprehensive and 
Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2018 and to several free trade agreements. Members 
were encouraged by many of the advances towards further economic integration into the world 
economy and the objectives  of Armenia's Development Strategy 2014 -2025.  
6.5.  However, Members were also interested in better understanding the impact of membership of 
the EAEU on Armenia's trade policy and its WTO obligations. A number of issues were raised in this 
regard:  
• First, acces sion to the Union had led to tariff increases on many tariff lines with the average 
applied tariff increasing from 2.7% in 2009 to 7.5% in 2018. Noting that Armenia was 
currently engaged in negotiations with interested parties under GATT Articles XXIV and 
XXVIII, Members hoped that Armenia would be able to conclude these negotiations at an 
early date;  
• Second, in the area of TBT and SPS measures, Armenia was asked to clarify inter alia the 
status in Armenia of EAEU technical regulations not yet notified to t he WTO;   
• Third, Members also raised concerns about certain legislative changes in government 
procurement as a result of Armenia's EAEU accession, such as harmonized EAEU 
blacklisting provisions and their compatibility with the GPA;  
• Finally, Members reques ted clarification of recent amendments to harmonize Armenia's 
Competition Law with that of the EAEU.  
6.6.  Encouraging Armenia to continue its constructive engagement with the WTO, Members 
commended Armenia for acceding to the Government Procurement Agreement (G PA) in 2011 and 
the revised agreement in 2015, and more recently on Armenia's ratification of the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement in 2017. Members noted that further to notifying its A, B and C category commitments, 
Armenia had already implemented many of the  B category commitments earlier than indicated in 
the notification. Members also encouraged Armenia to become a party to the Information Technology 
Agreement and to ratify the protocol amending the TRIPs Agreement in the near future.  
6.7.  Members recognized Arm enia's positive record of fulfilling its WTO transparency commitments. 
However, they also encouraged Armenia to make further efforts to fill some remaining gaps in its 
WTO notifications, including in the areas of: import licensing and quantitative restrict ions; subsidies 
and countervailing measures; and domestic support for agriculture. Members underlined that by WT/TPR/W/157  • Armenia  
 
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  fulfilling its notification obligations, Armenia was helping to support the WTO's monitoring function 
and the capacity of other Members to properl y appreciate the policy measures taken by Armenia.  
6.8.  Members praised Armenia's general openness to FDI and its recognition of the important 
contribution it can have on economic development. At the same time, Members encouraged further 
domestic regulatory re forms to continue improving Armenia's business environment with a view to 
facilitating commercial activity and stimulating sustainable growth. However, Members also 
highlighted that they wanted to see more effective enforcement and progress in Armenia's 
capacity -building in the protection of intellectual property rights. Noting that cigarettes and other 
tobacco products manufacturing was becoming increasingly important as a source of revenue, 
Members encouraged Armenia to continue its efforts to control the  illicit trade in tobacco products.  
6.9.  In conclusion, Armenia has provided answers to all of the written questions submitted before 
the deadline and nearly all of those submitted after it. This TPR will be successfully concluded in a 
month's time when Armenia has replied to all outstanding questions and any follow -up questions 
that emerged during this meeting. I  sincerely hope that the discussion held during this Review will 
prove useful to Armenia in the continued implementation of economic and trade r eforms and in its 
pursuit of policies to achieve sustainable growth.  
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7  ADOPTION OF THE TPRB 'S ANNUAL REPORT FOR  2018  
CHAIRPERSON  
7.1.  I would like to ask delegations to consider the TPRB's Annual Report for 2018, which was 
distributed on 31 October 2018 in docu ment WT/TPR/W/155.  
7.2.  The Secretariat has not received any comments from delegations. I therefore trust that this 
version could be considered the final one.  
7.3.  The floor is open if any delegation would like to speak. Otherwise, I propose the adoption of 
the Ann ual Report as contained in document WT/TPR/W/155.  
UNITED  STATES  
7.4.  The United States appreciates the opportunity to comment on the draft annual report.  
7.5.  The United States continues to place high importance on the work of the TPRB including Trade 
Policy Reviews . The TPR process is a fundamental core tenet of the WTO, transparency.  
7.6.  We know this very well. No Member has undergone more TPRs than the United States. In fact, 
we are looking forward to our own 14th TPR next month.  
7.7.  I would like to make a few brief comme nts on the report. In particular, I want to note the 
consistently high -quality work of the Secretariat in drafting the Secretariat report for each TPR 
meeting. These are valuable reports, and the information they contain is useful long after the TPR 
meetin g has ended.  
7.8.  As with any process, there are elements here and there that might benefit from additional 
attention. I'll briefly mention two today.  
7.9.  First, we have observed instances where Members may not have been treated similarly in 
Secretariat reports reg arding concerns raised in other WTO committees. As an example, a Report 
may have noted concerns raised about one Member's trade policies or measures in a certain 
committee; however, the concerns raised by that Member in the same committee regarding other 
Members' policies or measures were not mentioned in the Secretariat reports for the TPRs of those 
Members. We would encourage a consistent approach in this regard.  
7.10.   Second, we have observed that new language added to the Secretariat report after the 
Secretar iat's visit to capital is not always flagged for the Member under review. In our view, the 
Secretariat's consultation with the Member would be further strengthened from such a practice.  
7.11.   Our suggestions today are made in the spirit of always seeking to buil d on the Secretariat's 
strong record of high -quality work.  
7.12.   Finally, we would like to propose two small edits to Footnote 1. Footnote 1 correctly notes the 
Members who will have a TPR in 2019, as listed in Annex III. For consistency, Footnote I should also 
note the two Members who will have a TPR in 2020, as listed in Annex IV. For each of these Members, 
a parenthetical could be added that states "to be reviewed in 2020." The two Members are Tajikistan 
and Cuba.  
CANADA  
7.13.   Thank you for the Report. We have read it and have no further comments. Just to say that 
we had noticed the same thing as my colleague from the United States, on the Footnote, just for 
consistency that it would be good to add the dates for 2020 as well, because they are in Annex IV 
of the docum ent. It would be a little bit more consistent to have all the dates.  
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  CHAIRPERSON  
7.14.   The TPRB takes note of the interventions and adopts its Annual Report to be amended.  
__________