Nakhchivan: The implementation of the 'State Program for the Development of Production and Processing Sectors of Agricultural, Fisheries and Aquaculture Products in the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2026-2030' aims for an annual growth of at least 2% in gross domestic product generated in agriculture, forestry, and fisheries, along with a 6% annual growth in exports of these products during 2026-2030, as stated by Minister of Agriculture Majnun Mammadov during a regional meeting in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the minister outlined key targets within the program for crop production, which include boosting the average yield of wheat and cotton to 50 centners per hectare in specialized districts, increasing overall wheat production by 20%, and cotton production by 17%. Additionally, the area equipped with modern irrigation systems is expected to grow from 130,000 hectares in 2025 to about 300,000 hectares by 2030. There are plans to expand intensive orchards from 50,000 to 70,000 hectares and greenhouse complexes from 1,500 to 2,000 hectares.

In the livestock sector, the program targets increasing the share of highly productive pedigree cattle in the total herd from 2.5% to around 10%, enhancing beef production in slaughter weight by at least 20%, and raising milk production by at least 10%. It also aims to boost poultry meat production by at least 30%, egg production by approximately 27%, and establish new poultry houses and modern slaughterhouses.

The aquaculture sector is set to see its production volume rise from 3.4 thousand tons to about 7.7 thousand tons. The program also includes plans to establish an agropark and identify development zones in this sector.

Minister Mammadov highlighted that the total investment required under the State Program is estimated at 5.9 billion manats, with 2.2 billion manats expected to be provided through state support and 3.7 billion manats from private sector investment. The infrastructure and institutional foundations created through the program are anticipated to have lasting impacts beyond 2030.