EBRD Invests in Modern Customs and Logistics Centre in Yerevan, Armenia

Strategic Insights -

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is financing a new customs and logistics centre on the outskirts of Yerevan, Armenia, with a EUR39 million sovereign loan, complemented by a EUR6 million grant from the European Union (EU). The facility will replace several fragmented customs sites across the capital, improving service quality and reducing the time required for clearance. The centre will implement the 'single window' principle for customs operations, accelerating clearance processes and enhancing efficiency. This project aligns with Yerevan's Green City Action Plan and addresses key environmental priorities, such as easing traffic congestion, improving air quality, and reducing freight-related greenhouse gas emissions.

Key Takeaways:

  • The EUR39 million sovereign loan from the EBRD and the EUR6 million grant from the EU will finance the construction of a new customs and logistics centre in Yerevan, replacing fragmented customs sites across the capital.
  • The facility will implement the 'single window' principle for customs operations, reducing the time required for clearance and enhancing efficiency.
  • The project aims to strengthen regional connectivity and support trade, contributing to Armenia's economic development.
  • The site will be among the first public buildings in Armenia to receive green building certification, achieving a considerable increase in energy efficiency.
  • Relocating customs operations outside the capital will ease traffic congestion, improve air quality, and cut freight-related greenhouse gas emissions in Yerevan by a third.
  • The EBRD has invested more than EUR2.5 billion in Armenia since 1992, supporting over 231 projects.
  • The project is a follow-on investment under Yerevan's Green City Action Plan and supports the EU's Global Gateway flagship initiatives for 2025 under the EU Economic and Investment Plan for Eastern Partnership.

Statistics:

  • EUR39 million: Sovereign loan from the EBRD to finance the construction of the new customs and logistics centre.
  • EUR6 million: Grant from the European Union to support the project.
  • 231: Number of projects supported by the EBRD in Armenia since 1992.
  • EUR2.5 billion: Total investment made by the EBRD in Armenia since 1992.
  • 1/3: Reduction in freight-related greenhouse gas emissions in Yerevan expected as a result of relocating customs operations outside the capital.

Sources:

European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) press release.