Armenia is preparing for a significant shift in its policy on accepting humanitarian aid. At a government meeting on December 19, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan proposed a legislative ban on the import of used goods under the guise of humanitarian aid.
According to the National Statistical Committee, the scale of such imports is striking: in the first nine months of 2024 alone, over 1,145 tons of humanitarian cargo valued at approximately $80 million were brought into the country.
However, the quality of this aid has raised serious concerns among the nation’s leadership.
Taking a firm stance on the matter, the Prime Minister declared that even used goods currently held at Armenian customs should be returned to their senders. He stated that the practice of turning Armenia into a primary destination for "second-hand" goods contradicts the country’s development strategy.
"There are many countries that genuinely need this type of aid. Let used and worn-out items be sent there," Pashinyan emphasized, making it clear that Armenia will no longer accept such shipments.
