Economy minister faces backlash over LPG price hike in Armenia

Armenia’s Minister of Economy Gevorg Papoyan reported that 24 trucks carrying bottled Armenian brandy had successfully passed through Upper Lars and entered Russia over the past day. However, public concern quickly shifted in the comments section of his social media post, where users questioned the recent surge in prices of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in Armenia.

"What happened to the liquid gas? You said imports had resumed, yet the price went up by 200 drams," a user commented.

Papoyan responded that the matter falls under the jurisdiction of the Competition Protection Commission and confirmed that the concern had been forwarded to the competent agency.

The user replied critically, saying that by the time the relevant authorities act, monopolies would have already made billions in excess profits. He claimed that the market is dominated by three companies – Max, Flash and CPS – with little real competition.

“It’s been about 15 days since you said gas was entering the country, yet prices keep rising. Evidently, the commission is either inactive or powerless,” the commenter added.

Another user dismissed Papoyan’s report on brandy exports as trivial, stating: “You’re presenting it as a major achievement, but those trucks used to pass unhindered. Ask yourself why this became a problem in the first place.”

Earlier, opposition MP Garnik Danielyan raised concerns over the surge in LPG prices which have now reached 180-200 drams per liter at filling stations.