Armenia's withdrawal from the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) could result in serious losses for the country's economy.
Modern.az reports that the "Baza" Telegram channel disseminated information based on expert opinions. It is stated that Armenia's departure from the union could cost the country a minimum of 5 billion dollars.
According to experts, one of the main risks is related to the energy sector. Currently, Armenia buys natural gas from Russia at a preferential price - 177.5 dollars per thousand cubic meters. However, it is noted that if the country leaves the EAEU, the price of gas could rise to the level of the European market - approximately 550 dollars.
Igor Yushkov, an expert at the Financial University, stated that in this case, Armenia's additional annual expenses for energy resources could amount to approximately 800 million dollars.
According to the information, Armenia also risks losing billions of dollars in revenue from re-exporting products to Russia in recent years. Experts believe that since a large part of Armenian products are directed to the Russian market, the weakening of economic ties will seriously affect the export sector.
At the same time, the imposition of customs duties could create an additional financial burden on key sectors such as cognac, tobacco, and agricultural product production. Additional business expenses in this direction are projected to be approximately 100 million dollars.
Discussions intensified after Russian President Vladimir Putin's statements that Armenia must choose between rapprochement with the European Union and remaining in the EAEU.
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, however, stated that the issue of the country's participation in the EAEU is not planned to be raised unless it becomes necessary.
