Fruit growing is one of leading sectors in the Armenian agriculture. The favorable climatic zoning of the country provides non-simultaneous ripening of fruits. This prolongs the shelf life of fruits and loosens the seasonal tension in fruit supply. As a result of climatic changes in different altitudes, special varieties of fruits have unique taste and flavor, and are famous not only in Armenia but also abroad.

Armenia is especially rich with apricot, peach, apple, plum, pear, quince, walnut, almond, fig and other fruits. Ararat valley is the heart of Armenian fruit growing although these types are available in many regions of Armenia.

All the mentioned fruits have high importance for the overall agriculture. However, apricot has a national value and is the most demanded fruit in abroad. In Armavir and Ararat regions the Yerevani variety makes 85% of all apricot varieties. It has the best flavor, very attractive appearance, plus it is high yielding.  

Another important and critical sector is viticulture which has very long and worthy history in the Armenian agriculture. The special quality of Armenian grape varieties ensure high quality brandy and wine production which are accepted not only in Armenia but in foreign countries as well. For instance, the lion’s share of Armenian beverage export (90%) comes from brandy export.  

Currently, Armenian researchers are working on introducing more frost-resistant varieties which will contribute to the expansion of the fruit and grape areas and geography thereof. Meanwhile, it will contribute to the supply of domestic and export markets in the long run.

Sources:

1.   “Food Security and Poverty, January – June 2010’’, National Statistical Service of Armenia, August 21, 2010, available online at www.armstat.am

2.   S. Avetisyan “Agriculture and food processing in Armenia”, Limush Publishing House, Yerevan 2010, pages 34-40