New Regulations in High-Tech: Mkhitar Hayrapetyan Presents Bills to Advance the Industry

At the November 14 session of the National Assembly, RA Minister of High-Tech Industry Mkhitar Hayrapetyan introduced two draft laws: “On State Support of the High-Tech Sector” and “On Amendments and Additions to the Tax Code of the Republic of Armenia.” These bills propose new regulations aimed at fostering the development of Armenia’s high-tech industry.

The draft laws are designed to revise the framework of state support tools and tax benefits for the high-tech sector, as well as for R&D activities, with the goal of creating more favorable conditions for their growth.

Addressing the National Assembly, Minister Hayrapetyan highlighted the importance of the government’s USD 80 million investment program, emphasizing that it is not being implemented at the expense of other industries.

“This investment supports the growth of other sectors. From security and military industries to cyber security, high-tech solutions, and data protection, technology is integral to every branch of the modern economy. Countries that fail to adopt technological solutions risk falling behind. Armenia aims to remain highly competitive, confront global challenges, and ensure rapid economic growth that enhances the well-being of its people,” the Minister stated.

Babken Tunyan, Chairman of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Economic Affairs, delivered a related report. He outlined the collaborative efforts undertaken with experts and field representatives in developing the legislative package.

“We aim to establish regulations ensuring predictability in the high-tech industry for the next seven years. This initiative is not about privileges but about advancement, allocating significant focus to education, science, and R&D,” Tunyan remarked.

NA Vice President Hakob Arshakyan also addressed the legislation, underscoring its significance for promoting education, scientific research, and professional workforce development in the high-tech sector. He proposed several amendments, including eliminating the distinction between small and large companies, encouraging educational and scientific investments, and clarifying the scope of companies covered by the law.

It is worth noting that these bills were thoroughly discussed within the Standing Committee on Economic Affairs and during consultations with industry representatives before their presentation at the plenary session. Comments and suggestions from these discussions are already under review, with the final positions to be deliberated between the first and second readings.

As part of the same NA session, Minister Hayrapetyan also submitted a draft law amending the “Law on the Control of Export and Interstate Transit of Dual-Use Goods and Technologies through the Territory of the Republic of Armenia.” This amendment aims to improve the business environment and support the activities of technological and engineering companies.