Chinese companies are interested in establishing production facilities in Armenia and are ready to participate in financing joint projects. This was stated by Sergey Avanesov, head of the Foundation for Regional Development of Armenian-Chinese Relations.
According to him, "Armenian Trading House" has already reached an agreement with major Chinese retail chains on the purchase and distribution of imported products. Negotiations are currently underway to attract a stable banking partner who would help create insurance and leasing companies. In particular, one of the Chinese leasing organizations is ready to provide financing at a rate of 5% per annum.
The Chinese side is also considering launching production directly in Armenia, which will allow for the simultaneous development of the local economy and access to the Armenian market. At the same time, Avanesov noted that comprehensive studies of the prospects for such cooperation are practically not being carried out yet.
"Armenian Trading House" plans to expand trade in the opposite direction as well. Among the projects under consideration is the export of Armenian fish to China for subsequent processing and canning. In addition, the company has a site in Hainan for receiving wholesale batches and packaging goods, and an ice cream production facility is planned to open there soon.
Avanesov also spoke separately about equipment financing: for a project worth $15 million, the Chinese side is ready to provide a loan at only 1% per annum. In his opinion, for further trade development, Armenia needs a banking partner capable of connecting local businesses with Chinese financial organizations.
