Baku, Azerbaijan, Jan. 30
By Azad Hasanli – Trend:
Chairman of Azerbaijani Hazelnut Producers and Exporters Association Ismayil Orujov has proposed to simplify the export of hazelnuts from the country.
Orujov was speaking at the conference dedicated to results of third year implementation of ‘The State Program on Socio-Economic Development of the Regions of the Republic of Azerbaijan in 2014-2018’ in Baku Jan. 30.
Among other proposals, Orujov mentioned the necessity to train highly qualified specialists - agronomists and experts, open laboratories in the major districts of hazelnut production, implement and enhance the appropriate analyses, as well as improve access to financing sources, including through the provision of concessional loans.
“To date, producers of hazelnuts in Azerbaijan have received preferential loans worth 10 million manats,” the chairman of the association added.
Orujov said that Azerbaijan ranks fourth in terms of hazelnuts exports.
“Azerbaijan grows 35,000 tons of hazelnut, 90 percent of which are shipped abroad,” he noted. “Last year alone, we exported hazelnuts worth $105 million. Nearly 25 countries, including Italy, Germany and Russia are the main consumers of our hazelnuts. Growing and processing of hazelnuts is one of the main areas providing Azerbaijan with foreign currency.”