Economist Andranik Kamendatyan warns that Armenia faces serious shocks if Russian gas prices increase. According to his forecast, the price of bread could reach 1,200-1,400 drams, while public transport fares could rise to 700 drams. All of this, the economist says, could lead to economic collapse if Russia decides to significantly raise the price of gas it supplies to Armenia.
Kamendatyan notes that an increase in gas prices directly affects almost all sectors, as gas is the primary energy carrier. Food production costs, especially baking, are largely determined by energy prices, while transport services are directly tied to fuel costs. Through this chain reaction, price hikes would impact nearly all segments of the population.
In the economist's view, such a price increase would be an excessively heavy burden on citizens in the current economic situation. He reminds that Armenia remains heavily dependent on Russian gas, and this dependence has not diminished over the years. Kamendatyan calls on authorities to actively seek alternative energy sources and develop mechanisms to protect the population from potential price shocks.
This forecast is not just numbers but a real threat to every household. Gas prices are the link in Armenia's economy that, when pulled, sets everything in motion—from the texture of bread to bus wheels.
Although Kamendatyan's figures are hypothetical, the logic behind them is clear and indisputable. The question is not only whether Russia will raise the price, but also how prepared Armenia is to absorb the blow. Talk of energy diversification has remained just talk for years, and now it may turn out that the bill has come due.
