Contrary to promises, food imports are growing while exports are declining. What should the government do?

According to the data published by the State Statistics Committee, in August 2024, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in Azerbaijan increased by 103.5% compared to August 2023. This includes an increase of 103.0% in food products, beverages, and tobacco products, 101.8% in non-food products, and 105.6% in paid services provided to the population.

According to information provided by the State Customs Committee, our calculations indicate that during the January-August period of 2024, the import value of food products increased by 9.8% compared to the same period last year.

Since the beginning of the last century, Azerbaijan has expanded its vineyards and increased production. For instance, while in 1913, vineyard areas in the country totaled 22.9 thousand hectares, by 1967, they had grown to 102.9 thousand hectares, and in 1984, to 284.1 thousand hectares.

Recently, the Agrarian Subsidy Council (ASC) made a decision regarding the 2025 needs in the crop production sector. This decision covers the planting areas, yields, seed ratios, quotas for seeds and seedlings, and planting needs for specific plants and regions.