Armenia at a glance

The Republic of Armenia is a landlocked upper-middle-income country in the Southern Caucasus with a population of around 3 million and a total area of 29,800 km². Its geography is predominantly mountainous, characterized by extensive pasturelands, high plateaus, and deep river valleys shaped by extinct volcanoes. The climate varies by elevation but features generally hot summers and cold winters. Lake Sevan one of the world’s largest high-altitude lakes and the largest in Armenia covers 1,400 km². Approximately one-third of the population (1.2 million people) resides in the capital, Yerevan.

Armenia is recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot, hosting more than 17,500 animal species and 3,600 plant species across diverse ecosystems. Its agrobiodiversity is particularly notable: as one of the earliest cradles of agriculture, Armenia is home to wild relatives of key crops such as wheat, rye, and barley, along with numerous edible and fodder plants.

Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the economy and the primary livelihood source in rural areas. In 2023, the sector employed 28% of the national workforce, with women accounting for 55% of agricultural workers. Most farms are small, subsistence-oriented units with highly fragmented landholdings. According to the 2024 agricultural census, Armenia has 387,257 farms overwhelmingly smallholders. Key agrifood exports include alcoholic beverages, fresh fruits and vegetables, and dairy products, while grain supplies rely heavily on imports, primarily from the Russian Federation. Livestock production is based on traditional, small-herd systems dominated by cattle and small ruminants, which complicates disease management. Persistent challenges include land fragmentation, climate vulnerability, and outdated technology.

Looking ahead, Armenia’s agrifood sector is at a pivotal moment. Efforts to modernize irrigation, strengthen food safety systems, improve storage and logistics, and promote climate-resilient agriculture are gaining momentum. The government has also placed growing emphasis on digital agriculture, sustainable land management, and expanding export potential. These priorities create important opportunities for partnership and targeted investment to accelerate productivity, improve rural livelihoods, and enhance the long-term resilience of Armenia’s agrifood systems.