Armenian delegation visits Naktuinbouw
Publicationdate: 19 juni 2026
From 8 until 12 of June Naktuinbouw welcomed a delegation from Armenia for a study visit focused on DUS (Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability) testing.
During the visit, discussions addressed the use and exchange of DUS reports between authorities, highlighting how international collaboration can improve efficiency and avoid duplication of testing. Participants also gained insight into the complexity of the practical and technical aspects of DUS examinations, including trial design, assessment methods, and reporting.
The visit provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen cooperation and support the further development of Plant Breeders Rights in Armenia.
Plant Breeders’ Rights and Variety Registration in Armenia
Applications for Plant Breeders’ Rights (PBR) and/or variety registration may be submitted directly to the Agriculture Research and Certification Center (ARCC) SNCO under the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia.
In Armenia, Plant Breeders’ Rights protection and variety listing are separate procedures. Applicants may apply for PBR protection only, for variety listing only, or for both procedures simultaneously.
Applicants are required to submit an application form together with supporting documentation, including a variety description, technical questionnaire, authorization documents (where applicable), proof that the variety is GMO-free, photographs, and the relevant state fee receipts.
For PBR protection, varieties must satisfy the UPOV criteria of Novelty, Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability (DUS). Since Armenia became a member of UPOV in 2024, applicants may submit official DUS examination reports issued by recognized authorities in other UPOV member states. Where such reports are available and accepted, additional DUS testing in Armenia is generally not required.
Following review of the submitted documentation and examination results, the application is evaluated by the relevant Expert Council. After a positive recommendation, the application is submitted to the competent authority for approval and the granting of Plant Breeders’ Rights.
If the applicant intends to commercialize seed or planting material in Armenia, the variety must also be included in the Official List of Plant Varieties Approved for Use in the Republic of Armenia.
For listing purposes, varieties are generally subject to Value for Cultivation and Use (VCU) testing. The testing period is normally two years for varieties and one year for hybrids. Following evaluation of the trial results, a positive recommendation of the Expert Council, and approval by the competent authority, the variety may be entered into the Official List and become eligible for commercial use in Armenia.
More information?
For further information, applicants are encouraged to contact ARCC directly.
Agriculture Research and Certification Center (ARCC) SNCO
Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia
Attn.: Meruzhan Zadayan, PhD, Acting Director
E-mail