Diamond cutting companies produce 5.17 billion drams worth products in
six months

YEREVAN, August 28. / ARKA /. Armenian diamond cutting companies
produced 5.17 billion drams worth products in the first six months of
2014, and about 95 percent of them were exported, deputy economy
minister Tigan Harutyunyan told at a news conference.

According to him, during this period Armenian companies increased
import of raw diamonds from Russia, due to Russia’s decision to lift
duties on export of raw diamonds to Armenia, while import of raw
diamonds from Belgium reduced, but he did not specify.

“After Armenia’s accession to the Customs Union, Armenian jewelers
will get a new opportunity to win a 150 million market”, said
Harutyunyan.

According to the National Statistical Service, in January-June 2014
Armenian diamond cutting companies’ output totaled 5.7 billion drams,
a 41.3% decline when compared to the same period in 2013.

During the reporting period, Armenian companies sold abroad $111.6
million worth precious and semi-precious stones, metals and articles,
up 24.7% year-on-year, while imports of these types of goods grew by
23 percent to $157.5 million. ($ 1 – 411 drams). -0-

From: Baghdasarian