Armenia intends to modernize tourism legislation

YEREVAN, August 3. /ARKA/. The Armenian government has approved today a draft law designed to enhance the country's tourism industry.

According to Deputy Minister of Economy Rafael Gevorgyan, the tourism industry is now regulated by a law adopted in 2003, 'but significant changes have taken place in the industry since then, which revealed new challenges.'

"In the first half of this year, the number of foreign tourists visiting the country grew by 30% compared to 2019, the pre-pandemic year that saw the largest number of tourists and compared to last year, we have an unprecedented 68% growth," he said.

Gevorgyan also noted that outbound tourism opportunities for Armenian citizens and residents have expanded, a new national air carrier has been created, and many direct flights to different destinations have been opened.

"As a result of all this, there is a need to introduce new regulations that will be in harmony with our new pace of development, will ensure proper protection of tourists' interests, standardize and regulate the quality of services," he said.

Under the draft law, delivery of tourism services is subject to notification; it sets requirements with specific criteria for those who provide tourist services; it designates the scope of regulation in the field of tourism, the powers and actions of the government and authorized state bodies; it introduces an electronic diary of registration of tour services and tourist resources.

In order to protect the rights of consumers, certain requirements are established, including the conclusion of a contract.

It is planned that the draft law will come into effect from June 30, 2024, and some regulations will come into effect from June 30, 2025. -0-