Armenian Freight Carriers Face Serious Crisis

Yesterday's events in Gyumri, where all of Armenia's attention was focused on the mayor's arrest operation and political officials of varying calibers were already acting as if they were the judiciary, engaged in street language labeling, caught my eye—the Economic Minister's statement on this very topic, vivid and political, articulated in his unique style. This was noted by former head of the State Revenue Committee, Davit Ananyan, on his Facebook page.

“I inadvertently noted that on the very same day, the protest of freight carriers had also taken a back seat, addressed precisely to that entity. Armenian freight carriers are facing a serious crisis. The new entry rules to Russia have limited them to just 90 days per year, leading to long-term entry bans for dozens of drivers. The ongoing traffic jams at Upper Lars have transformed this restriction into a devastating penalty for both drivers and exporters.

Drivers have protested several times—gathering in front of the government building, marching towards embassies, and yesterday as a form of protest, blocking roads leading to Georgia. Their demand is clear: Armenia must reach an agreement similar to Kazakhstan’s to exclude restrictions imposed on freight carriers.

So, what is the Armenian government doing? In fact, nothing. Talks of “high-level negotiations” are mentioned, but there is no real solution. Drivers continue to find themselves on “black lists,” freight trucks continue to pile up at the border, and Armenia’s economy is losing its reputation as a reliable partner.

This entire situation indicates that the crisis facing freight carriers is no longer merely an industry issue. It has become a litmus test for state governance capability. Unfortunately, this test highlights inefficiency, disorganization, and incompetence.

Thus, while the authorities are busy with political spectacles and dramatic arrests, the real economy and the existence of thousands of families are at risk. This is the true face of our country under this government,” wrote Davit Ananyan.