Doing Business with Armenia

Here’s a general guide on how to export goods to Armenia:

1. Research Market Demand

   • Identify the demand for your product in Armenia.
   • Analyze competition and local market trends.

2. Understand Export Regulations

   • Familiarize yourself with Armenia’s import regulations and tariffs.
   • Ensure compliance with international trade laws.

3. Product Classification

   • Determine the correct Harmonized System (HS) code for your product.

4. Documentation Preparation

   • Prepare necessary documents: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.

5. Find a Local Partner

   • Identify a local distributor or agent to assist with logistics and regulations.

6. Register with Armenian Customs

   • Ensure your business is registered with Armenia’s customs authorities.

7. Comply with Standards

   • Adhere to Armenia’s product standards and labeling requirements.

8. Arrange Shipping and Logistics

   • Choose a reliable logistics provider familiar with Armenian imports.
   • Decide on the mode of transport and manage insurance.

9. Customs Clearance

   • Work with your local partner to manage customs clearance upon product arrival.

10. Payment and Financing

    • Establish a secure payment method.
    • Consider export insurance or financing options if needed.

Key Contacts

• State Revenue Committee
  • Website: State Revenue Committee
• Ministry of Economy of Armenia
  • Website: Ministry of Economy
• Armenian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
  • Website: Armenian Chamber of Commerce

Here’s a guide on how to import goods into Armenia:

1. Research Import Regulations

   • Understand Armenia’s import laws and tariff classifications.
   • Check for any restrictions on your products.

2. Obtain Necessary Licenses

   • Determine if your products require specific import licenses or permits.

3. Register with Armenian Customs

   • Ensure your business is registered with Armenia’s customs authorities.

4. Classify Your Goods

   • Use the Harmonized System (HS) code to classify your goods correctly.

5. Find a Customs Broker

   • Hire a licensed customs broker to assist with documentation and regulations.

6. Prepare Required Documentation

   • Gather necessary documents: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin.

7. Ensure Compliance with Standards

   • Meet Armenia’s standards and labeling requirements for your products.
8. Arrange Shipping and Logistics
   • Choose a reliable logistics provider and arrange for transportation and insurance.

9. Customs Clearance

   • Work with your customs broker to ensure smooth customs clearance.

10. Payment of Duties and Taxes

    • Calculate and pay any applicable import duties, taxes, and fees.

Key Contacts

• State Revenue Committee
  • Website: State Revenue Committee
• Ministry of Economy of Armenia
  • Website: Ministry of Economy
• Armenian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
  • Website: Armenian Chamber of Commerce

Here’s a guide on how to incorporate a company in Armenia:

1. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of entity (e.g., LLC, JSC).

2. Reserve a Company Name

   • Check and reserve your company name with the State Register.

3. Prepare Incorporation Documents

   • Draft the company charter and gather required documents.

4. Open a Bank Account

   • Open a temporary bank account and deposit the initial capital.

5. Register with the State Register

   • Submit your incorporation documents, including the charter, to the State Register.

6. Obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN)

   • Register with the State Revenue Committee for a TIN.

7. Register for Social Security

   • Register your company for social security and pensions.

8. Obtain Necessary Permits

   • Apply for any specific licenses or permits needed for your business activities.

9. Register Employees

   • Enroll employees in the social security system.

Costs

• State Registration Fee: Approximately $50 to $100 USD.
• Initial Capital Requirement: Varies based on the type of company.

Key Contacts

• State Register of Legal Entities
  • Website: State Register
• State Revenue Committee
  • Website: State Revenue Committee
• Ministry of Economy of Armenia
  • Website: Ministry of Economy

Here’s a general guide on how to set up a manufacturing plant in Armenia:

1. Conduct Feasibility Study

   • Analyze the market, costs, and location benefits.

2. Choose a Legal Structure

   • Decide on the type of business entity (e.g., LLC, JSC).

3. Register the Company

   • Follow incorporation steps: reserve name, prepare documents, register with the State Register, and obtain TIN.

4. Select a Location

   • Choose a strategic location considering logistics, access to resources, and workforce availability.

5. Acquire Land and Permits

   • Purchase or lease land and obtain necessary construction and environmental permits.

6. Design and Build the Facility

   • Hire architects and contractors to design and construct the plant.

7. Install Machinery and Equipment

   • Purchase and set up manufacturing equipment.

8. Hire and Train Employees

   • Recruit skilled labor and provide necessary training.

9. Ensure Compliance with Regulations

   • Adhere to safety, environmental, and labor regulations.

10. Register with Relevant Authorities

    • Register with municipal authorities and obtain operational licenses.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Economy of Armenia
  • Website: Ministry of Economy
• State Revenue Committee
  • Website: State Revenue Committee
• State Register of Legal Entities
  • Website: State Register

Here’s a guide on how to register a trademark in Armenia:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

   • Check for existing trademarks to avoid conflicts using the Intellectual Property Agency database.

2. Prepare Application

   • Gather necessary information: trademark name, logo, class of goods/services.

3. Submit Application

   • File the application with the Intellectual Property Agency of Armenia.

4. Pay Fees

   • Pay the required application fee, approximately $50 to $100 USD.

5. Examination Process

   • The agency examines the application for compliance and potential conflicts.

6. Publication in Official Bulletin

   • If approved, your trademark is published for opposition, allowing third parties to contest.

7. Opposition Period

   • Wait for a 3-month period for any oppositions. If opposed, legal proceedings may ensue.

8. Registration and Issuance

   • If no opposition, or once resolved, the agency registers your trademark and issues a certificate.

9. Renewal

   • Trademarks are valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely.

Key Contacts

• Intellectual Property Agency of Armenia
  • Website: Intellectual Property Agency

Here’s a guide on resolving commercial disputes in Armenia:

1. Negotiation

   • Attempt to resolve the dispute through direct negotiation between parties.

2. Mediation

   • Engage a mediator to facilitate discussions and reach a voluntary agreement.

3. Arbitration

   • If agreed upon, use arbitration for a binding resolution. Check if your contract includes an arbitration clause.

4. File a Lawsuit

   • If other methods fail, file a lawsuit in the appropriate commercial court.

5. Court Proceedings

   • Present evidence and arguments before the court. This process can be lengthy.

6. Judgment

   • The court issues a judgment which can be enforced legally.

7. Appeal

   • If necessary, appeal the decision to a higher court.

Costs

• Mediation and Arbitration Fees: Vary based on the mediator/arbitrator and complexity.
• Legal Fees: Depends on the lawyer and duration of the case.
• Court Fees: Typically a percentage of the claim amount.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Justice of Armenia
  • Website: Ministry of Justice
• Armenian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
  • Website: Armenian Chamber of Commerce

Here’s an overview of key factors related to doing business in Armenia:

Social Factors

• Language: Armenian is the official language, but Russian and English are also commonly used in business contexts.
• Business Culture: Building personal relationships is crucial. Face-to-face meetings are often preferred.

Cultural Factors

• Work Ethic: Punctuality is valued, but meetings may start later than scheduled. Trust and relationships are important.
• Communication Style: Armenians are generally warm and expressive. Understanding non-verbal cues can be beneficial.

Political Factors

• Government Structure: Armenia is a parliamentary republic.
• Stability: Political stability has improved, but businesses should stay informed about regional developments.

Economic Factors

• Foreign Exchange: The Armenian dram (AMD) is the local currency. Exchange rates can fluctuate, affecting costs.
• Inflation: Moderate inflation rates can impact pricing and financial planning.

Legal and Regulatory Environment

• Rule of Law: Legal processes are generally reliable, though they can be slow. Ensure compliance with local laws.
• Intellectual Property: Protecting intellectual property is crucial. Register trademarks and patents with the Intellectual Property Agency.

Additional Considerations

• Infrastructure: Urban areas are well-developed, but rural regions may have limited infrastructure.
• Market Access: Armenia is part of the Eurasian Economic Union, offering access to regional markets.

Relevant URLs

• Ministry of Economy of Armenia: Ministry of Economy
• State Revenue Committee: State Revenue Committee
• Intellectual Property Agency of Armenia: Intellectual Property Agency