The Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communication (CAERC) continues its series of regional public discussions on “Economic Reforms in Azerbaijan: Achievements and Prospects.” The latest event took place in the northwest region, bringing together participants from Shaki, Balakən, Qax, Qəbələ, Oğuz, and Zaqatala. The discussion focused on the country’s ongoing economic reforms and ways for local communities to benefit from them.

The event began with a welcome from Həsən Həsənov, First Deputy Head of the Shaki City Executive Authority. Following this, Elxan Mikayılov, Head of Sector at the Office of the Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on Economic Policy and Industry, highlighted that recent economic reforms have spurred significant development across regions and major cities. He noted that industrial production and agriculture are growing, new industrial zones are being established, and the northwest region in particular is experiencing rapid development with strong future prospects.

CAERC’s Executive Director, Vüsal Qasımlı, emphasized that Azerbaijan’s rise by two positions in the World Economic Forum’s 2017-2018 Global Competitiveness Report reflects the logical outcome of continuous reforms. He added that the regions’ contribution to the national economy is substantial. Mr. Qasımlı pointed out that state support for cotton, tobacco, hazelnut, sericulture, tea, and citrus production, the development of tourism, and the establishment of industrial, agro, and technoparks, along with various incentive mechanisms, are accelerating regional growth. These reforms are increasing the northwest region’s share in non-oil sector output and exports.

Ramil Hüseyn, Head of CAERC’s Strategic Planning and Development Department, presented a talk on “Economic Reforms in Azerbaijan: Development Prospects of the Shaki-Zaqatala Economic Region," discussing how the Strategic Roadmaps will contribute to the region’s development. Fariz Əhmədov, sector head at the Ministry of Economy, presented on the support of entrepreneurship and improvement of the business environment, highlighting achievements in these areas. Representatives from the Ministry of Taxes and Ministry of Agriculture also attended.

After the presentations, local entrepreneurs, municipality representatives, and community members posed questions, which were addressed by the speakers. CAERC noted that similar discussions were recently held in the frontline region, and upcoming events will take place in Quba, Ismayilli, Ganja, Shirvan, Lankaran, and Mingachevir.

Concluding the discussion, Vüsal Qasımlı stressed that these meetings aim to inform the public about ongoing reforms, facilitate direct dialogue, enhance awareness and education, and strengthen public-private partnerships.