Chairman of the Union of Winemakers of Armenia Avag Harutyunyan said that 31% and 62% growth was recorded in wine consumption in 2010 in Armenia compared to 2009 and 2000 respectively, while consumption of strong drinks increased by 12% in 2010 and 2.3 times over the past 10 years in Armenia.

Consumption of imported and local vodka grew by 23 times and 61% respectively over the past 10 years in the country, Harutyunyan told a press conference in Yerevan.

“Usually, growth in strong drinks consumption is an evidence of social problems in any country. For example, vodka consumption increases when there are political problems. Annual wine consumption made 1 liter per capita 10 years ago in Armenia, while currently it makes 1.5 liter per capita. At the same time, annual vodka and brandy consumption made 8.3 liters per capita in 2010 against 5 liters in 2000. These figures indicate the social situation in the country,” said Harutyunyan.