Azernews.Az

By Nigar Abbasova

Being oriented on export-led economy, Azerbaijan continues to expand its foreign trade map. An export mission of Azerbaijani entrepreneurs, comprising representatives of some nine companies is currently in Kabul, Afghanistan.

The companies are engaged in such spheres as production of fruit and vegetables, mineral water, fruit juice, sugar and confectionery products, cotton, as well as chemical and other industrial products.

During the visit, representatives of Export and Investment Promotion Foundation (AZPROMO) held a meeting with the members of Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Industries.

AZPROMO Vice-President Yusif Abdullayev gave an insight into economy of Azerbaijan, ongoing reforms and development of the non-oil sector.

Besides, the sides signed a MoU concerning cooperation between the two institutions. The mission to Afghanistan will last till February 8.

Trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Afghanistan was $23.47 million in the first half of 2016, according to Azerbaijan’s State Customs Committee, and the entire amount accounted for the export of Azerbaijani goods to Afghanistan.

Organizing export missions to foreign countries to explore the markets and marketing activities stands among the promotional mechanisms required for increasing awareness about the local production.

Azerbaijan is sending trade missions to various countries since November 2016 to increase its exports. Only 10 export missions may be held within a year, while exporters participating in missions are freely provided with accommodation, transport and translation services.

The next mission (to Pakistan) is scheduled for February 9-11.

Last year Azerbaijan exported agriculture production worth $426 million, recording an increase of $73 million or 20.7 percent compared to the figure of 2015.

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Nigar Abbasova is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @nigyar_abbasova

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