Wednesday, 21 January 2009
RA Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan called a consultative meeting with a food processing industry-related agenda. In attendance were sector representatives and concerned ministries and agencies.
According to the Prime Minister, studies have shown that there is sufficient potential available in this area which as used adequately in cooperation with the private sector may provide for its normal development in 2009 and later on: “First of all, if we see what kind of commodities are imported in Armenia in terms of their quantity and quality, we will realize that still much has to be done in the field of food processing. Many of the imported goods can be produced locally. In addition, we can upgrade the existing enterprises. We understand that this will necessitate joint efforts and the government’s support,” Tigran Sargsyan said.
With a view to achieving a breakthrough in the domestic food industry, the head of government stressed the need for defining the range of priorities and the areas for State support. The Prime Minister advised that the government has its own estimates as to what extent the existing capacities can be enhanced for each type of product. Meanwhile, direct contacts with sector representatives can provide a more accurate idea of the problems faced and will help make more realistic decisions.
RA Minister of Agriculture Aramayis Grigoryan spoke of the state of affairs and the development prospects in the agricultural sector. Those present concurred in that for various reasons today the importers enjoy better conditions for doing business in Armenia than the domestic producers which is a serious hindrance to output expansion.
After discussing all of the agenda items and the proposals made by private sector representatives, Prime Minister Tigran Sargsyan allowed two working days for the ministries of economy and agriculture and the State Revenue Committee by the Government to summarize the package of proposals and submit an action plan.
