Armenia’s flower export industry faces heavy losses after Russian restrictions

Armenia could lose more than 90% of its flower export revenue if access to the Russian market is cut off, according to calculations by Russia's state-run media RIA Novosti based on data from national statistical agencies.

The warning comes after Rosselkhoznadzor announced on May 22 that it would temporarily restrict imports of flowers from Armenia. Russian authorities said the measure was necessary to protect the country’s phytosanitary safety and export potential.

According to the reported figures, Armenia earned $49.1 million from flower exports in 2025. Of that amount, approximately $46 million—around 93.8% of total sector revenue—came from exports to Russia.

Other export destinations accounted for significantly smaller shares. Georgia imported about $2.3 million worth of Armenian flowers, representing roughly 5% of exports, while Kazakhstan accounted for around $514,900, or about 1%.

Smaller export volumes were also shipped to the United Arab Emirates and Belarus, with imports valued at $166,700 and $61,600 respectively.

By Sabina Mammadli