YEREVAN, March 25. /ARКА/. Armenian Economy Minister Gevorg Papoyan discussed the country’s economic development priorities, ongoing reforms, and the main risks to its economic prospects with Alexander Timan, head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission to Armenia.
According to the Ministry of Economy press service, the parties exchanged views on Armenia’s export strategy for 2025-2030, expanding the presence of Armenian companies in international markets, legislative and institutional reforms, investment policy, and the implementation of major investment programs.
During the meeting, they also discussed the development of industrial and free economic zones, a strategic program to enhance the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and the capital market.
The parties also touched on recent regional developments and the unblocking of borders.
Deputy Minister Anushik Avetyan and IMF Resident Representative in Armenia Umang Ravat also attended the meeting.
About Armenia-IMF Agreements
In December 2025, the IMF Executive Board approved a new 36-month Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) with Armenia in the amount of SDR 128.8 million (approximately $175 million). It is aimed at assisting the Armenian authorities in maintaining macroeconomic stability and advancing their structural reform program, as well as providing insurance against uncertainty.
Stand-by arrangements (SBAs) guarantee that a country will be able to automatically receive foreign exchange up to an agreed-upon limit at any time during the term of the agreement, subject to compliance with the terms of the agreement. Experience shows that the amount of funds allocated under such arrangements typically exceeds the amount actually used.
After the agreement expires, any unused loan amount is returned to the IMF.
