EU Trade Relief for Armenian Industry: The EU Council approved a two-year suspension of import duties on about 80% of Armenian exports, aiming to protect exporters hit by Russian restrictions; the deal covers nearly 99% of fresh fruit/veg and plant exports to the EU and over 91% of beverages/spirits, with rules-of-origin and origin paperwork still required. Armenia EXPO 2026: The Armenia EXPO 2026 forum opened in Yerevan, with a clear push for higher productivity, new tech, investment, and export-oriented manufacturing. New Manufacturing Investment: A PROFAL glass processing plant opened in Armenia after $20m investment, boosting capacity to over 40,000 sq m per month and targeting sales in France, the UK, and the US. Energy & Grid Upgrades: ENA is modernizing 27 distribution substations in 2026 to improve supply quality, including major works in Shirak and Lori. Climate Pressure on Households: An IMF report warns climate and energy transition policies could strain vulnerable households, citing gaps in water, disaster resilience, energy transition, and social shock response. TRIPP Transit Project: Armenia says TRIPP feasibility work is due to finish this year, with construction possibly starting in early 2027, while the US role and financing are being detailed. Syunik Airport Expansion: Syunik Airport says it’s ready to support new airline routes and could pursue international status, pending customs, border, and phytosanitary services. Tech Diplomacy: WSJ reports US “chip diplomacy” linked Nvidia AI-chip access for Armenia’s Firebird project to peace talks with Azerbaijan. Solar Scaling Needs Storage: IMF also flags that further solar growth will require grid and energy storage investments. Fuel Flows: Azerbaijan plans another diesel shipment to Armenia, adding to recent rail deliveries and sparking debate online.