Azerbaijan’s potato export sector faced a notable setback in 2023, with a 9% decline in exports compared to the previous year, as revealed by data from the State Statistical Committee. The country exported a total of 71,192 tons of potatoes, amounting to $30,930,250, marking an 11.9% decrease in export value.
The decline in exports was particularly pronounced in shipments to Russia, Azerbaijan’s primary export destination for potatoes. With 62,642 tons of potatoes shipped to Russia, the country experienced a significant 15% drop in exports, reflecting changing trade dynamics between the two nations.
Conversely, potato imports into Azerbaijan surged by 8% in 2023, reaching 172,656 tons valued at $49,174,000, representing a notable 17.7% increase in import value. Russia emerged as a major supplier, contributing 67,842 tons of potatoes worth $17,015,810, followed by Iran, with 38,747 tons valued at $10,086,270.
These figures underscore a shift in Azerbaijan’s potato trade landscape compared to the previous year. In 2022, the country exported 78,301 tons of potatoes valued at $35,121,660, indicating a decline in exports and an increase in imports in 2023.
The fluctuations in potato trade highlight the evolving dynamics of Azerbaijan’s agricultural sector and its trade relations with neighboring countries. As the country navigates these changes, stakeholders will need to adapt to ensure the continued growth and stability of the potato industry in Azerbaijan.
