Baku, Azerbaijan, Jan. 30
By Azad Hasanli – Trend:
Azerbaijan exported wine products worth $3.5 million in 2016, said Elchin Madatov, chairman of Wine Exporters' and Producers' Association.
He made the remarks at a conference dedicated to the results of implementing the "The State Program on socio-economic development of the regions of the Republic of Azerbaijan in 2014-2018" in Baku Jan. 30.
Along with traditional export markets [Russia, the US, China], Vietnam, Japan, South Korea and European countries have become the export spots for Azerbaijan’s wine, he said.
Introduction of a mechanism for export promotion and methods of promotion of the ‘Made in Azerbaijan’ brand contributed to the growth of wine exports, he added.
“As part of the mechanism for export promotion, entrepreneurs have been provided benefits of 440,000 manats for the supply of wine and cognac products to other countries since November 2016 until today. Overall, preferential loans amounting to 40 million manats were issued for this,” Madatov explained.
He added that the Azerbaijani winemakers will take part in two exhibitions in China and Germany in 2017.
Winemaking in Azerbaijan entered a new stage of development thanks to the implemented programs, the taken decisions and the president’s attention, according to him.
“In certain Azerbaijani regions, plantings of grapes are being expanded and the range of domestically produced wines increases. We are now observing a new trend - consumers are starting to prefer local wines and, at the same time, our wines find their customers abroad,” said Madatov.