Greenhouse Producer Shifted Markets Away From Russia
The Armenian greenhouse company began pivoting its export strategy to the Gulf states in June 2026.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Organic Food
Live Poll
Is now a good time for local food exporters to pivot to new international markets?
Rockberry, an 11-hectare greenhouse operator in Armenia, ceased exports to Russia in June 2026. The shift targets new opportunities in the Gulf states for their produce, which includes strawberries, peppers, and various berries.
Why it matters
Changes in international trade routes often dictate the availability and pricing of fresh, greenhouse-grown produce. Monitoring these shifts helps consumers understand supply chain movements affecting global food access.
Rockberry manages an 11-hectare facility that achieved GlobalG.A.P. certification in 2022. While production metrics were finalized last year, the long-term viability of their new Gulf-focused export strategy is still under investigation.
The players
Rockberry
An Armenian agricultural company specializing in greenhouse-grown strawberries, peppers, and various berries.
The details
The facility maintains plant health through integrated ventilation, misting, and climate screen systems. Plants are set in September to support a ten-month growth cycle, though the company recently discontinued raspberry production because the hydroponic cultivation costs were too high to justify given current market returns.
Timeline
The company constructed the greenhouse facility in 2018.
Strawberry production operations commenced in spring 2019.
The company achieved GlobalG.A.P. certification in 2022.
Exports to Russia officially stopped in June 2026.
Health Landscape
This move highlights how regional agricultural producers adapt to shifting international trade dynamics to maintain economic viability. It follows a pattern of greenhouse operators utilizing standardized certifications to maintain market access during geopolitical volatility.
Consumers should note that changes in supply chains can lead to temporary fluctuations in the availability of fresh berries and bell peppers. It is worth checking the origin labels on your produce to understand the source of your food as global export patterns continue to evolve.
The takeaway
Agricultural producers often adjust their crop portfolios to ensure their operations remain economically sustainable. When shopping for fresh produce, prioritizing items with recognized safety certifications can help ensure you are choosing products grown under consistent quality standards.
Further reading
For more on the standards governing international produce, see our Organic Food coverage.
More information
Find more information on the company's agricultural practices at the Rockberry company website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Freshplaza.
Live Poll
Is now a good time for local food exporters to pivot to new international markets?
