Sabirabad: The main objective for Azerbaijan's cotton farming sector by 2030 is to increase the average yield to 50 centners per hectare, as outlined by Zeynal Naghdaliyev, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. During a regional meeting in Sabirabad, Naghdaliyev emphasized the importance of various strategic initiatives to boost the cotton industry as part of the State Program for the Development of Production and Processing of Agricultural, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Products for 2026-2030.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, specific targets have been established to enhance productivity in specialized cotton-growing districts. This includes expanding areas with modern irrigation systems, improving machinery, and implementing advanced agrotechnical approaches. The strategy also focuses on laser leveling technology, introducing subsidies aligned with production growth, and developing the cotton seed production and processing industry. Naghdaliyev stressed that these efforts aim to increase productivity and enable the export of finished products made from cotton fiber by 2030.

Naghdaliyev highlighted several challenges that need to be addressed to reach these targets. Issues such as irrigation supply interruptions, an aging machinery fleet, limited financial resources, low sale prices for cotton fiber, and infrastructure problems currently hinder the sector's development. He stated that overcoming these obstacles requires coordinated efforts across state institutions, local executive authorities, and the private sector.

The improvement of irrigation and energy supply, the adoption of modern technologies, and the timely execution of agrotechnical measures are essential for success. The efficient use of water and land resources, modern irrigation systems, and the enhancement of irrigation networks are critical components of the strategy. Naghdaliyev called for heightened awareness and attention to these areas to meet the sector's ambitious goals by 2030.