Close Cooperation with the Technology Community Continues: Mkhitar Hayrapetyan Meets with the Union of Employers of ICT

On February 14, the RA Minister of High-Tech Industry, Mkhitar Hayrapetyan, held a breakfast meeting with the expanded council of the Union of ICT Employers. During the discussion, a wide range of issues related to the development of the high-tech sector were addressed, with a special focus on new regulations introduced in the Law On State Support for the High-Tech Sector and the Tax Code of the Republic of Armenia, aimed at fostering growth in the technology industry.

The Minister shared his perspectives on the newly adopted law and its key directions, emphasizing that the high-tech sector is continuously evolving and requires the implementation of flexible policies to align with market changes. In this context, he underscored the importance of taking bold steps to drive progress.

A constructive discussion took place regarding the list of activities eligible for state support in the high-tech sector and the mechanisms for qualifying scientific research and experimental development (R&D) projects. The Minister elaborated on the RA Government’s decision of February 13, which established a list of 32 types of activities eligible for state support and tax benefits. These measures are expected to contribute to sectoral growth and create new opportunities.

The meeting also addressed the mechanism for qualifying scientific research and experimental development (R&D) projects. Under the adopted procedure, an expert committee will be formed to define criteria for scientific research and experimental programs, as well as the procedures for their qualification. This initiative aims to encourage scientific research and strengthen the sector’s scientific foundation.

Representatives of the Union of ICT Employers highlighted existing challenges and expressed their willingness to collaborate with a working group composed of specialists from the Union’s member companies. This group will help monitor and enhance the effectiveness of regulations. The ICT Union representatives welcomed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting sectoral development and stressed the importance of cooperation and dialogue in driving progress. It was noted that the Union has already formed a dedicated working group ready to assist the Ministry in refining legislative regulations for the sector.

According to Eduard Musayelyan, the Union of Employers of ICT consistently adopts a constructive approach when working with the Ministry and seeks to address challenges through joint efforts. He also proposed launching a collaborative information campaign to educate companies on the details of the new law and provide necessary clarifications.

At the conclusion of the meeting, it was reaffirmed that the Ministry remains open to proposals from all stakeholders and is committed to continuing joint efforts toward the long-term, sustainable development of the high-tech sector.