Street Trade Restricted in Yerevan

The National Assembly of Armenia has restricted street trading in Yerevan. The draft amendments to the law on local self-government in Yerevan, presented by the Armenian government, were adopted in the parliament during the second and final reading.

According to the proposed amendments, goods sold outside the designated areas (i.e., agricultural markets) can be confiscated in the case of street trading. The draft states that “trading or providing services in unauthorized locations or in violation of the requirements set by the legislation, or carrying out outdoor trading without the necessary permits, or executing street trade in violation of the requirements or conditions set by the permits may lead to the seizure of the objects of trading and services.” The authority to confiscate under this part may be delegated by the community head to relevant officials of the staff.

Earlier, government representatives reminded that according to the law on Trade and Services, outdoor trading is only permitted for flowers, seedlings, conifers and pines intended for New Year celebrations, ice cream, water, including mineral water, juices, and soft drinks. Those engaging in outdoor trading must ensure the appearance, safety, and quality of the goods being sold. Stalls must be placed on trays, and it is prohibited to place stalls directly on the ground, sidewalk, or pavement.