YEREVAN, April 1. /ARKA/. The French-owned Yerevan Brandy Company (YBC) said today it will procure 29,000 metric tons of grapes this year at the  price of 150 drams (about $0.3) per 1 kg. 

"Following the request of  wine-growers and as a follow-up to its commitment to revise the time of the announcement of the purchase price, the Yerevan Brandy Company announces that this year it will buy grapes at 150 drams per 1 kg, which is 10 drams higher than last year's price," the company said in a press release. It said currently work is underway to sign contracts with fixed prices.

The YBC said also that it bears no responsibility for possible manipulative statements, concerning the announced price.

"This year the company will purchase 29,000 tons of grapes. The  date when we will start buying grape will be announced additionally. Remaining true to its policy, the Yerevan Brandy Company will ensure that the purchasing process is absolutely transparent and as comfortable as possible for winegrowers,"  the press release said.

It said also that payments to the win-growers will be made within 3-4 days from the date of delivery of the grapes by transferring the money to special bank accounts of farmers. -0-