Baku, Azerbaijan, Nov. 14
By Sara Israfilbayova – Trend:
The Azerbaijani hazelnut producers are negotiating for the supply of their products to large foreign companies, the Chairman of the Association of Hazelnut Producers and Exporters of Azerbaijan, Ismayil Orujov, told Trend.
He did not name these companies, under the pretext of commercial secret.
However, at present, Azerbaijani hazelnuts are already being supplied to the Italian Ferrero SpA company, Orujov noted.
In general, the Azerbaijani hazelnuts are supplied to 25 countries of the world, said Orujov.
The main consumers of local hazelnuts are Italy, Russia and Germany.
Azerbaijan holds one of the leading positions in the world regarding production of hazelnuts, Orujov continued. He believes that it is necessary to continue the development of this sphere, otherwise the country can give up its position.
The government’s measures to promote products under the Made in Azerbaijan brand in foreign markets also contribute to expansion of the supply of hazelnuts.
In particular, with this purpose, the local entrepreneurs, with the support of the Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Foundation (AZPROMO), are actively participating in various exhibitions, including the events held in France, Russia and China, Orujov noted.
In 2017, 45,500 tons of hazelnuts were produced in the country, and 20,850 tons of hazelnuts were exported. Most nut orchards are in Gakh, Zagatala and Balaken districts.