No fall in gasoline prices in Armenia because of high degree of sector’s monopolization: expert
“Interesting growth can be recorded in Armenia in 2016, given some programs with the EU and the tendency to diversification in the economy. 2.2% economic growth is forecast, but by my estimates, it can reach 4%,” Chairman of the Union of Employers of Armenia Gagik Makaryan told reporters today.
He at the same time predicted a rise in unemployment, noting that migrant workers may return to Armenia from Russia where the situation has worsened.
When asked why gasoline prices do not decline in Armenia amid a drop in international oil prices, Makaryan indicated a high degree of monopolization of the sector which is in the hands of a few people.
“Since the sector is highly monopolized, political will is not expressed in this regard, and the control mechanisms do not operate, the situation will remain the same. Prices may drop a bit in response to criticism, but they will not be in line with international prices that have fallen,” he noted.