The Armenian government has decided to impose temporary restrictions on the importation of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) during a Cabinet meeting on May 23. This decision aims to regulate the importation system and establish conditions that local producers must meet to compete with GMO imports from other countries. In 2023, Armenia produced 1.14 million tons of GMOs, marking a 13.1% increase compared to the previous year. The importation of GMO seeds also rose during this period, reaching 125.2 thousand tons, a 19.2% increase. Additionally, the documentation of GMO importation statistics has improved, totaling around 270 million tons, a 3.5-fold increase. This progress has normalized GMO prices by aligning imported and domestically produced GMOs.

As a result of reducing GMO seed imports and diminishing GMO importation statistics, the market for GMO imports and production in Armenia has become more diverse. Moreover, GMOs were imported from both Georgia and the Russian Federation in 2023. These developments suggest a positive shift toward greater self-sufficiency and independence in terms of GMO production and importation in Armenia.

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