FIRST AGRICULTURAL MARKET INFORMATION SYSTEM DEVELOPS IN ARMENIA

armradio.am
12.12.2008 17:49

The first market information system in Armenia, funded by Water
to Market (WtM) Activity of the Millennium Challenge Account –
Armenia, will be launched on December 17, 2008. The international
best practices of the system, its need for Armenia and the use of the
system will be presented during the launch. States officials, farmers,
representatives of agricultural associations, banks, producers and
processing companies, local and international organizations will be
present at the launch event.

Mr. Ara Hovsepyan, the Executive Director of the Millennium Challenge
Account – Armenia and Mr. Richard Hurelbrink, Country Director of
ACDI/VOCA and Team Leader of WtM Activity will make welcoming speeches.

"The objective of the market information system is to provide market
prices of fruit and vegetables to farmers, representatives of all
segments of production and marketing chain. Well-analyzed market
information enables farmers to make planting decisions, including
those related to new crops," says Mr. Hurelbrink. The system will be
disseminating information through its web site and SMS (short message
service). It will enable farmers to negotiate with traders from a
position of greater strength. The system will be useful not only for
the farmers but also for representatives of various industry sectors
such as processors, wholesalers, retailers, ho tels and restaurants,
and all others who are interested in receiving accurate information and
market dynamics. The system may also provide information on quality,
postharvest technologies and industry innovations through its website.