The State Program approved by President Ilham Aliyev on May 25, 2026, marks a new era for Azerbaijan's agricultural sector. Economist Zaur Gardashov comments on its impact.
The program aims to increase agriculture's share in GDP and boost exports from $1.5 billion to $6 billion. Expert notes that processing industry expansion, cotton yarn and fabric production, and new vegetable oil plants will be key.
Logistics infrastructure development, including cold storage expansion, will reduce product losses. Modern irrigation systems will minimize water waste. Land consolidation will begin with pilot projects in Salyan and Gabala.
Digitalization and innovations, such as the "e-Agriculture" system, will streamline management. A joint agricultural university with foreign partners will enhance human capital.
Gardashov emphasizes that success requires reforms beyond the Ministry of Agriculture. Customs, tax, land, and construction permit processes need simplification, and a "single digital window" system must be expanded.
