The Armenian economy ministry, led by Vahan Kerobyan, indicated that the Yerevan Brandy Factory, known for producing Ararat brandy and part of the Pernod Ricard portfolio, may halt shipments to Russia. This update was relayed by DEA News.
Kerobyan suggested that it appears likely the factory will suspend exports to Russia, though he stressed that the information is not an official government statement at this time. The potential move could have ripple effects, particularly on grape procurement and related supply chains within Armenia’s wine and spirits sector.
In the aftermath of Russia’s strategic actions in Ukraine, several global alcohol producers began reducing or exiting their presence in the Russian market. Names such as Diageo, with brands like Johnnie Walker and Baileys; LVMH, including Hennessy and Moët & Chandon; Pernod Ricard with Chivas Regal and other labels; and Brown-Forman have recalibrated their distribution in the region. Industry observers note that imports of alcoholic beverages fell in the second quarter of 2022 but have shown signs of recovery as market dynamics adjusted and new supply routes emerged.
For Armenia, the evolving export landscape to Russia adds a layer of complexity to a sector already exposed to international sanctions and geopolitical shifts. Analysts emphasize that any disruption in the Yerevan Brandy Factory’s export pattern could influence grape purchasing plans, pricing, and downstream production schedules in Armenian wineries and distilleries. Stakeholders are watching closely to understand how these movements might affect Armenia’s broader agricultural exports, export diversification strategies, and the resilience of local producers amid fluctuating demand from neighboring markets and beyond.