YEREVAN, August 3. /ARKA/. The agency ‘ARKA’ presents a digest of the main events of the week.
SUMMARY
The week was marked by increased external trade risks, sustained economic activity, and Armenia's transition to a new political cycle.
Macroeconomic data indicates the resilience of domestic demand. At the same time, exports decreased while imports increased, emphasizing the importance of external balance and market diversification.
The banking sector continues to see growth in deposit and loan portfolios. The infrastructure agenda is shifting towards water projects aimed at enhancing agricultural resilience and reducing energy costs for irrigation.
A significant challenge is the transformation of the digital economy in the media market: the development of generative search compels Armenian media and brands to rethink their approaches to content distribution, relationships with technology platforms, and direct audience engagement.
The overall signal of the week is that the economy maintains internal momentum, but the importance of the stability of export channels, infrastructure investments, regulatory quality, and adaptation to new technological models is increasing for businesses.
POLITICS
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has appealed to Russian President Vladimir Putin to take measures to resolve the issue of restrictions on the export of Armenian-origin goods to the Russian market.
Armenia is interested in maintaining the Eurasian Economic Union, stated Minister of Economy Gevorg Papoyan.
On Sunday, August 2, the National Assembly of Armenia of the ninth convocation began its work.
ECONOMY AND MACRO SIGNALS
Economic activity in Armenia increased by 7.9% in January–June 2026 compared to the same period last year.
The top thousand taxpayers in Armenia contributed over 1.109 trillion drams in taxes and customs duties to the state budget in the first half of the year, approximately 12.6% more than the previous year.
The World Bank forecasts a growth of 5.3% for Armenia's economy in 2026.
BUSINESS AND CORPORATE SECTOR
A key aspect of Armenian-Russian economic relations remains the concession of the South Caucasus Railway.
WHAT IT MEANS
- Economic activity remains high, but the decrease in exports and increase in imports intensifies the external imbalance.
- Restrictions in the Russian market have become a systemic risk for Armenian exporters.
