On 25 August 2026, President Vahagn Khachaturyan of the Republic of Armenia visited the State Revenue Committee (SRC) to discuss the tax policy priorities outlined in the national Government Program. The meeting, chaired by SRC Chairman Eduard Hakobyan, focused on enhancing the effectiveness of tax administration, ensuring stable state revenues, and fostering a constructive relationship between the state and the business community. The President emphasized that the success of the tax system should be measured not only by the revenue it collects but also by the quality of the economic environment it creates for enterprises. The dialogue covered ongoing reforms aimed at modernizing tax and customs processes, strengthening tax discipline, and aligning Armenia’s practices with international standards.
Key Takeaways
- Shift from Punitive to Supportive Tax Administration: President Khachaturyan stressed that the SRC’s work should move away from merely recording violations and imposing fines toward supporting lawful business activity. He advocated for providing businesses with greater certainty and protection in their interactions with the state, ensuring that tax obligations are met through cooperation rather than confrontation. This approach aims to reduce unnecessary obstacles for enterprises while maintaining compliance, thereby fostering a more predictable and fair tax climate that encourages investment and sustainable economic growth.
- Modernisation Initiatives and International Cooperation: The discussion highlighted several reform programmes already underway, including the digital transformation of customs administration, the pilot use of artificial intelligence in customs systems, and the ongoing effort to establish a centralized state customs laboratory. The President expressed particular support for the Mutual Recognition Agreement on Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programmes between Armenia and China, noting that such cooperation enhances border security, streamlines trade, and brings Armenian practices closer to those of the European Union and other international partners. These initiatives are being pursued with assistance from organisations such as the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).
- Implications for Revenue Collection and Economic Development: By aligning tax policy with broader public‑administration reforms, the SRC aims to improve the efficiency of revenue collection without imposing excessive burdens on taxpayers. The President underscored that a transparent, fair, and predictable tax system is essential for attracting both domestic and foreign investment, which in turn drives job creation and long‑term fiscal stability. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue strengthening the partnership between the SRC and the business community, to monitor the implementation of agreed reforms, and to pursue further international exchanges that will keep Armenia’s tax administration aligned with global best practices.
Disclaimer:This article is compiled and summarized based on publicly available information and is for general information and academic exchange purposes only. It does not constitute any form of formal tax advice, legal opinion, or basis for performance. For tax planning, please consult a qualified professional tax advisor or legal counsel.
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