Rafael Gevorgyan: EU will assist in implementation of quality  standards for the new geographical marking of Armenian brandy

ArmInfo.The EU will assist in the implementation of quality standards for the new geographical marking of Armenian brandy. Deputy Minister of Economy of Armenia Rafael Gevorgyan stated on October 16 in an interview with the Public Television of Armenia. He recalled that the names of  "cognac" and "champagne" are applied to those alcoholic beverages that are produced in the corresponding regions of France.

 "Everyone knows in this area that there are certain problems. We  previously signed an agreement in which we committed to gradually  abandon these names. Step by step we will move towards replacing the  labeling of brandy," he said. When asked whether concessions are  possible in this regard, the deputy minister emphasized that this is  not a question of concessions. Gevorgyan assured that the EU will  assist in protecting the new geographical marking of Armenian brandy  by introducing appropriate quality standards.

In May 2021, during a meeting, the Government of the Republic of  Armenia approved the proposal to sign a financial agreement with the  European Commission "On assistance in the implementation of Article  237 of the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement between  Armenia and the EU (CEPA). Stage I." The purpose of the agreement is  to facilitate the efforts of the Republic of Armenia in developing  economic potential, as well as strengthen sustainable cooperation in  the field of trade within the framework of the provisions of CEPA, in  particular, to assist in the implementation of provisions regarding  geographical marking of names in accordance with Article 237 of the  agreement ( CEPA). "The goal of the program is to stimulate a smooth  and productive cessation of the use of the EU geographical  designation "cognac" for goods manufactured in Armenia, as well as to  promote the export of products from Armenia to maintain the  competitiveness of the world famous Armenian alcoholic drink in  international markets. In particular, to assist in the development of  a new brand, stimulating the promotion of this name, both in the  domestic and foreign markets in terms of advertising and maintaining  market niches," the document says.  The program budget is set at 3  million euros.