In the framework of the Integrated Rural Development Project/ TRIGGER, the European Union supported the study tour to Armenia for 13 Project partners, representatives of following organization: Mountain Societies Development Support Programme (MSDSP), Public Organization (PO) Azal, PO Development of Cross-Border Relations in Lakhsh District, PO Association Woman and Society, PO Cross Border Economic Relations in Sughd Province, and Aga Khan Foundation (AKF).

The study tour provided valuable insights into modern agricultural practices, business management, and community engagement for implementing business.  The Project partners had a unique opportunity to visit various locations in Armenia, such as Arteni village, Tsaghkunq village, Armavir, Garni, Hovtashat, and the Ararat districts.

Participants learned from Artin Dried Fruit's successful implementation of ISO 22000, highlighting the importance of quality control, risk management, and certification in achieving competitive advantages.  The Gagarin Project demonstrated effective strategies for sustainable resource management, community involvement, and heritage preservation.  

Additionally, the dried fruit production company Sun Cheers showcased the unique challenges faced by women-owned businesses and the critical role of family and community support in overcoming societal constraints.  Moreover, visits to the Garni Garden and the Garni Kotayk Berry Production provided practical insights into nut and berry cultivation, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices, market focus, and adaptation to environmental challenges.

Furthermore, participants observed modern greenhouse tomato production techniques at NewGroup, including precision irrigation and pest management.  In addition to all this, the Scientific Center of Vegetable and Industrial Crops highlighted the role of research in varietal development, soil analysis, and plant pathogen detection.

The study tour provided participants with an understanding of modern practices in food production, business management, and community engagement.  The experiences and knowledge gained will contribute to the participants' ability to implement innovative practices and build effective business strategies within their own contexts.

The Integrated Rural Development Project (IRDP)/ Towards Rural Inclusive Growth and Economic Resilience (TRIGGER) is a joint project of the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) to boost the added value of agricultural production in Tajikistan by improving water security and sustainability, enhancing the productivity of selected value chains, supporting market development, export readiness, enterprise promotion and economic policy advice.

For further details, please contact: Sharofat Ashurova at [email protected], telephone number +992 987270046.