Gold market employees protest tax hike in Yerevan

Jewelers and traders from the gold market in Armenia on Monday gathered outside the government building in central Yerevan to protest against a tax increase that doubled their obligation from 5% to 10% as of January 1.

“There was no prior discussion or explanation. Suddenly, we're told that we had to pay 10% instead of 5% starting from January 1,” one of the protesters said.

The demonstrators called for a thorough market study before any final decision.

They also warned that they would challenge the government's decision in court if their concerns were left addressed.