ArmInfo. In 2018, the recognition of Armenian cognac and wine will continue in international markets. On December 25, answering the question of ArmInfo, Deputy Agriculture Minister Robert Makaryan stated.
According to him, according to the agreement with the European Union on an extended partnership, Armenia has time to resolve a number of issues related to Armenian cognac. In particular, we are talking about the need to indicate the geographical name of the origin of the grapes on the product etiquette, and also to determine the name of the product - whether it will be called "cognac" or "brandy". "During the given 25 years we have to decide on this issue, the negotiations on which are already underway," Robert Makaryan said.
Deputy Minister reminded that since last year in Armenia, the Wine-growing and Winemaking Foundation has been working, whose efforts in 2017 have been carried out numerous programs. In particular, due to the results of participation in numerous exhibitions, the recognition of Armenian wines and cognacs has increased. Serious agreements were reached and relevant agreements were concluded. In 2018, it is planned to map the areas of vineyards and lay the basis for maintaining the cadastre of these areas, which will allow us to streamline mutual relations between producers and cognac producers, and also to increase the export of wine and brandy products.
As a whole, in 2017 for export 119,2 thousand tons of fruit and vegetable products were delivered. Basically, exports were made to the Russian Federation, which is explained by the need to maintain the traditional market. If current trends persist, exports are expected to grow in 2018 if it is accompanied by good climatic conditions, the exchange rate of the Russian ruble, the state of transport infrastructures, and other factors. The growth will be facilitated by the implementation of a number of programs related to the establishment of procurement centers, refrigeration facilities, the development of greenhouse farms, as well as the program for leasing agricultural products. In order to diversify export destinations, negotiations are under way with France, Poland, China and other countries, which will avoid the emergence of possible risks.