Inefficient Subsidy Policy Must Be Changed

In recent years, a significant increase in onion production has been observed in Azerbaijan. At the same time, farmers face serious difficulties in the cultivation, storage, and sale of their produce. This situation has persisted for many years. Although there are many storage facilities in the country to store the harvested products, a large number of these warehouses are not equipped with the necessary facilities for proper agricultural storage. As a result, part of the produce spoils and rots in these warehouses.

Despite a moderate increase in agricultural output, Azerbaijan is facing mounting pressure on food prices, reflecting the economy’s continued reliance on imports and the limited capacity of domestic supply.

Ensuring food security is one of the state’s fundamental responsibilities. Governments regulate the production, distribution, quality, and supply of food products and implement the necessary measures to ensure sustainability. Food security means meeting the country’s needs for essential food products and drinking water through domestic production, while additionally creating state reserves amounting to 20 percent.

Today, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev attended the opening ceremony of the “Shirvan Agro” livestock complex in the Shamakhi district. At the event, the head of the Shamakhi District Executive Authority stated that the complex has been established on an area of approximately 100 hectares. It has the capacity to accommodate 9,000 head of livestock — including 3,200 dairy cattle, 3,000 beef cattle, and 2,800 calves. Currently, the complex houses Holstein-Friesian, Limousin, Aberdeen Angus and other breeds.