Agriculture & Water

Agriculture is one of the most important sectors of the economy in Azerbaijan. Studying the top-notch Dutch knowledge and expertise in agriculture contributes to the country’s ambition to grow food efficiently and sustainably and allow premium crops to reach as many Azerbaijani consumers as possible. Presence of nine climatic zones allows the country to produce a variety of agricultural products and brings about new opportunities.

In order to decrease the dependence of the domestic food market on imported products and generate reliable food reserves, the government has taken a number of measures to  improve the business and investment climate by stimulating producers, providing subsidies, and establishing a firm institutional and economic basis for further development.

Azerbaijan has a broad agricultural base, with opportunities in horticulture, greenhouse production, floriculture, seeds and planting materials, water management, livestock genetics, dairy, cold chain, processing, and agrifood logistics. These areas are important because the country is trying to improve productivity, reduce import dependence, strengthen food security, increase non-oil exports and develop more competitive value chains. Azerbaijan needs not only equipment and agricultural inputs but also integrated ecosystem solutions that combine reliable after-sales service, technical advisory support, farmer capacity building, local testing and adaptation, and long-term cooperation with local partners. The Netherlands can add significant value in the Azerbaijani market through its integrated cluster or ecosystem approach. This approach can be demonstrated through pilot projects, the development of reliable distribution networks, joint ventures, and investment models connected to agroparks, industrial zones, and other priority regions, showcasing the benefits of Dutch expertise and fostering long-term partnerships.

To help Dutch businesses identify and seize emerging opportunities in Azerbaijan’s agricultural sector, the Embassy supported PFF Agro Consulting in conducting the study “Agricultural Sector: Opportunities and Challenges for Cooperation with the Netherlands.” The study provides an in-depth look at the current state of Azerbaijan’s agriculture, its key modernization priorities, and the areas where Dutch companies, knowledge institutions, and investors can make a tangible difference. From innovative technologies and sustainable production to knowledge exchange and investment partnerships, it highlights concrete opportunities to turn Dutch expertise into lasting business opportunities and mutually beneficial cooperation.

Caspian Agro

The Embassy has been joining Caspian Agro Exhibitions almost every year since 2016 with the “Netherlands Pavilion”. Current and high-potential cooperation areas in agriculture include seed production, greenhouses & greenhouse technology, dairy, poultry and meat production, horticulture. For more information see the website of Caspian Agro.

Water

For decades, the Netherlands has made its knowledge and expertise available and the Dutch water sector is very well regarded all over the world. The Netherlands has an international reputation for innovation, integrated and inclusive solutions that: protect people and infrastructure from flooding; prevent water scarcity; and, ensure supplies of clean and safe water.

Dutch companies are working together with the Azerbaijani government in efficiently and sustainably utilizing the country’s water resources. The collaboration between Azerbaijan and the Netherlands resulted in more business opportunities for Dutch water companies.

Several Dutch companies' work on assessing water resources for the Government of Azerbaijan has significantly contributed to shaping the country’s water strategy for 2024−2040. This collaboration has helped enhance Azerbaijan’s policy framework on water management, resulting in improved water quality and fostering sustainable socio-economic development.
Key areas of ongoing and potential cooperation between the Netherlands and Azerbaijan include the assessment of water availability, quality, demand, and the operational management of water systems.


In September 2024, the Dutch Embassy, in partnership with Export Partner and Aqualink LLC, organized a Dutch water trade mission to Azerbaijan. Following this mission, Aqualink, supported by the Embassy, conducted a comprehensive Study on the Water Sector in Azerbaijan. This study highlights the main challenges facing the sector and proposes innovative Dutch solutions to effectively address them.