Azerbaijan, Australia to expand cooperation in agriculture

ASo, according to Jafarov from the end of last year companies of the two countries are discussing a project on the supply of pomegranate juice from Azerbaijan to Australia, adding that in Australia there is a great interest in this product, given the competitive [compared to the Australian] prices for Azerbaijani products.

“Australia is also interested in purchasing Azerbaijani spices, such as saffron, as well as new breeds of cattle,” he added.

He went on to say that Azerbaijan shows interest in technology of shock freezing of fruits and berries, adding that the first delivery of Australian wine from Perth to Azerbaijan began.

“Cooperation between Azerbaijan and Australia is rapidly developing. This was evidenced by last year’s visit of the Australian trade mission to Azerbaijan, which includes representatives of over 30 companies. Of course, the trade relations between the two countries still leave much to be desired, but the potential is great, despite the fact that both countries are far apart,” the head of the Chamber of Commerce concluded.

The Commonwealth of Australia recognized the independence of the Republic of Azerbaijan on December 26, 1991. Diplomatic relations between two countries have been established on June 19, 1992.

Azerbaijan exports crude oil to Australia. Butter is imported from Australia.

The trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Australia amounted to $5.5 million in 2017, according to Azerbaijan’s State Customs Committee. Almost the entire amount of trade fell on imports of Australian products.