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Compliance vs Regulations in Armenia: A Delicate Balance

Armenia’s economy has been undergoing significant changes since its accession to the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and World Trade Organization (WTO). As a result, the country is now required to comply with EAEU technical regulations, which have become more stringent, particularly in terms of sanitary and phytosanitary requirements. Meanwhile, Armenia’s national authorities are responsible for establishing procedures for compliance with these regulations.

The Need for Compliance

The Armenian government has recommended that traders adopt EAEU technical regulations as soon as possible, given the transitional period granted to companies to comply with new standards. All goods produced in, imported into, and circulating within the EAEU must meet mandatory requirements.

Role of National Body for Standards and Metrology (SARM)

Armenia’s National Body for Standards and Metrology (SARM) plays a crucial role in promoting standardization and ensuring conformity assessment procedures. SARM is responsible for researching, developing, and publishing national, interstate, and international standards. The organization also maintains a national fund of standards and coordinates the activities of six standardization technical committees.

Cooperation with International Organizations

Armenia has cooperation agreements with several international organizations, including ISO, which it joined in 1997. Armenia also participates in the ePing SPS and TBT platform, which provides access to notifications made by WTO members under the Agreements on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS) and Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT).

Public Comment Period

Armenia’s national TBT Enquiry Point accepts comments and official communications from other national TBT Enquiry Points. The country also operates a public comment period for proposed regulations, allowing any Armenian or foreign entity to submit comments via the SARM website.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Armenia’s compliance with EAEU technical regulations is crucial for its economic development and integration into international trade. The country’s authorities must strike a balance between implementing new standards and ensuring that businesses have sufficient time to adapt. Meanwhile, SARM plays a vital role in promoting standardization and conformity assessment procedures, while cooperation agreements with international organizations facilitate Armenia’s participation in global trade.

Contact Information

  • National Body for Standards and Metrology (SARM)
    • Ministry of Economy
    • M. Mkrtchyan 5, Yerevan 375010, Armenia
    • Tel: +374 (10) 56 69 25
    • Fax: +374 (10) 52 65 77
    • Email: sarm@sarm.am
  • U.S. Department of Commerce’s Standards Attaché - Belgium (European Union)
  • Economic and Commercial Unit is the standard point(s) of contact at the Post, available at yerevanbusiness@state.gov.