Business
Armenia Foreign Trade Hits $3 Billion in January-February 2026, Up 9.3 Percent
April 23, 2026
4
Min
Armenia's foreign and mutual trade turnover increased by 9.3 percent in January-February 2026 compared to the same period last year, reaching $3.064 billion according to official customs data. The figures point to a continued expansion of the country's trade relationships despite ongoing geopolitical uncertainties in the region.
Exports during the reporting period amounted to $1.17 billion while imports totaled $1.89 billion, maintaining a trade deficit that Armenian economists say is gradually narrowing as the country's manufacturing and technology sectors grow. Notably, exports expanded by 12.6 percent year-on-year, outpacing the 7.3 percent growth in imports — a trend that suggests improving competitiveness in Armenian goods and services.
The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) has characterized Armenia's trade dynamics as having returned to sustainable growth after a period of adjustment following the disruption to traditional Russia-mediated supply chains. New trade corridors through Georgia, direct links with Azerbaijan, and expanded engagement with Gulf and European markets have all contributed to diversifying Armenia's trading partner base.
International financial institutions remain broadly optimistic about Armenia's economic trajectory. The International Monetary Fund projects 5.5 percent GDP growth for Armenia in 2026, while the World Bank recently upgraded its forecast to 5.3 percent. The EBRD similarly projects 5.5 percent growth, reflecting confidence in the durability of Armenia's economic expansion.
The trade data also reflects growing commercial integration with Azerbaijan, where bilateral exchange through Georgian territory has expanded beyond energy products to include agricultural goods, construction materials, and transit cargo from Central Asia. Azerbaijan now serves as a transit route for Kazakh wheat deliveries to Armenian buyers, illustrating the practical economic benefits of regional normalization.
Analysts expect Armenia's trade volumes to continue expanding throughout 2026, supported by new free trade negotiations and the country's growing reputation as a nearshoring destination for European companies seeking alternatives to traditional supply chains.
