If We Approach the Issue from a Patriotism Perspective, the More Important Question Is Why There Is Demand for Turkish Goods in Armenia

The economic feasibility of extending the ban on the import of Turkish goods remains unclear in Armenia. Nevertheless, the government has decided to lift the ban, taking into account all opinions both for and against. In an interview with Armenpress, Babken Tunyan, the Deputy Chairman of the National Assembly's Standing Committee on Economic Issues, clarified that the ban was not serving its purpose, as Turkish products were still reaching Armenia through indirect means, finding their consumers and driving up prices for many goods.

“If we approach the issue from a patriotism perspective, the more important question is why there is demand for Turkish goods in Armenia. If we compare it to the situation during the 44-day war, when everyone was boycotting Turkish products, we now need to understand what is causing people to want to buy Turkish goods again. If there is demand for a product, it will find its market and reach its consumers, whether through indirect means or at a higher price. Therefore, it is not right to artificially alter something. If we set aside the emotional aspect, we must evaluate its economic feasibility,” Tunyan stated.

He emphasized that Turkish product categories had not been completely banned; only final consumer goods were prohibited. For example, while Turkish clothing was banned, materials such as fabric, buttons, and other components used to make that clothing were still being imported, allowing the clothing to be produced and sold in Armenia at a higher price due to the overall increase in costs. “Thus, in any case, an analysis must be conducted, considering all the positive and negative aspects,” Tunyan added.

It was noted that the import of Turkish goods into Armenia was banned as of December 31, 2020, by a decision made by the Armenian government during the 44-day war unleashed by Azerbaijan and Turkey on October 20.