One of the key goals facing Azerbaijan’s economy is the development of the non-oil sector and the expansion of its export potential. Steps taken in this direction in recent years are now reflected in concrete indicators. In particular, Azerbaijan’s non-oil exports have exceeded US$2.8 billion. This figure is significant in terms of increasing the share of non-oil products in the country’s overall export structure.

The growth observed in non-oil exports can be regarded as the result of efforts to diversify the economy, create new production opportunities, and strengthen the position of locally produced goods in international markets.

The increase is primarily linked to the expansion of production capacity in agriculture and food processing, the chemical industry, metallurgy, textiles, and other sectors. Improving access for local products to foreign markets creates opportunities not only for the development of entrepreneurship, but also for the emergence of new production and export opportunities.

Speaking to Azerbaijan Television on the issue, economist and expert Khalid Karimly said:

“The fact that non-oil exports have increased by approximately 18 percent, reaching $2.8 billion, is a very positive indicator. In general, the country should maintain double-digit growth in non-oil exports over the next decade or so, because there is no alternative to diversifying exports and reducing dependence on oil and gas exports. This year, the targets are being achieved, and when we look at the structure of exports, we can see that, gradually, we are seeing not only raw materials but also products from the processing industry. This is very encouraging. In particular, the 20 percent increase in exports of agricultural and agro-industrial products, bringing them close to $1 billion, is a positive development.”

It should be noted that the rise in non-oil exports strengthens Azerbaijan’s position not only as a country exporting energy resources, but also as an economy capable of offering competitive products across a range of sectors. In this regard, expanding the geography of exports and gaining access to new markets are of particular importance.

The expansion of Azerbaijan’s transit and logistics capabilities also creates additional advantages for bringing non-oil products to international markets. In particular, the development of transport links along the Middle Corridor not only strengthens the country’s position as a regional trade and logistics hub, but also opens up new opportunities for increasing non-oil exports.

Thus, the $2.8 billion figure can be regarded as an important milestone in the development of Azerbaijan’s non-oil sector. Maintaining this momentum will contribute to expanding the country’s export potential, diversifying foreign-currency revenues, and building a more sustainable economic model.