Azerbaijan focuses on import phase-out

/By AzerNews/

By Nigar Orujova

The instability in crude markets, combined with reducing energy revenues highlighted the need to focus on phase-out of import and ensure higher domestic production.

The government of Azerbaijan now plans to decrease dependence on import by developing non-oil industry, particularly agriculture sector.

Increasing crop productivity and developing animal husbandry, poultry industry and other areas are among the key measures to be taken to reduce dependence on imports, Member of Parliament Tahir Rzayev told Trend.

President Ilham Aliyev has touched upon the development of the economy and reducing dependence on imports at the last conference dedicated to the implementation of the State Program on Socio-Economic Development of Regions, Rzayev reminded

The MP said that during the speech the head of state noted that Azerbaijan has to become a country that does not depend on imports.

This, of course, will happen through increasing the local production, Rzayev said, adding that the matter is not only to meet the needs of the population, but also to export certain products to foreign countries.

The parliamentarian noted that this process should be carried out in all regions.

“We should develop crop production, viticulture, cotton, grain growing and beekeeping. Azerbaijan enjoys such a climate that allows growing many different products,” Rzayev said. “By developing local production, we can also expand exports to foreign countries.”

Today, when Azerbaijan is developing its non-oil sector, it can produce and export many products from high technology computers to everyday goods. The state also plans to open new plants and facilities to develop production of medicines.

Azerbaijan encourages investors to create joint facilities, which is also favorable for foreigners.

At the recent conference, the head of state said that state officials and state bodies should also use local production, including local cars, furniture, shoes.

It was noted that this will become a good support to the local entrepreneurs, whose production is as good as those brought to Azerbaijan from abroad.