Amidst the gradual establishment of economic relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, the possible access of Armenian products to the Azerbaijani market is being discussed.
Deputies originally from Western Azerbaijan shared their opinions on the topic with Modern.az.
Deputy Hikmat Baboglu stated that if products in demand in Azerbaijan enter our country from the Armenian market, it is possible for them to find buyers here. According to him, trade is first and foremost a process of mutual production, consumption, and exchange of goods. Today, no country produces all its needs one hundred percent domestically, and consumers are also interested in alternative products in the market. Therefore, whether Armenian products find buyers in Azerbaijan will mainly depend on their quality, price, and conformity to market demand.
Regarding the quality of food products to be imported from Armenia, he noted that these products, like food imported from other countries, must undergo relevant control and laboratory inspections. Special attention is paid to food safety in Azerbaijan, and products brought into the country are released to the consumer market after inspection. Substandard products and those that do not meet certain standards should not be allowed into Azerbaijan.
"Whether Azerbaijani citizens buy Armenian-made products will depend on individual choice. The main criterion here is the quality and price of the product, rather than its origin. If Armenian products have a competitive price and quality, it is possible for a certain group of consumers to prefer those products," he said.
I will buy products grown in my native lands:
Regarding whether he would buy Armenian-made products, H. Baboglu stated that he would be particularly interested in agricultural products grown in his native lands. He noted that each geography has its unique products and tastes. He also recalled Lori cheese, prepared in Amasia, Aghbaba district of Shirak province, emphasizing that this cheese was once known for its high quality and was sent to Moscow, even to the Kremlin's kitchen. He expressed his desire to taste such products again.
The deputy, stating that there could be a demand for products to be brought from Armenia to Azerbaijan, said that no country fully produces all its needs itself. Consumers sometimes look for alternative products in the market, and Armenian products can also create a certain demand if they are suitable in terms of quality and price.
"Although trade is primarily an economic phenomenon, it can positively influence the creation of mutual trust between the parties and the peace process. Economic ties established between companies strengthen mutual cooperation, which can positively affect political relations in the future.
Regarding the issue, Deputy Elshad Musayev stated that Armenian products could find buyers in Azerbaijan:
"The restoration of trade relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia should be approached with a certain caution. For many years, the two countries have been in a state of war and hostility, and Armenia's policy of occupation and aggression against Azerbaijan has left deep marks on these relations. Therefore, the expansion of economic ties will depend on the development of political relations and the peace process. Armenia must fulfill its obligations, a peace agreement must be signed, and only then will the gradual normalization of relations be possible. At the same time, the attitude towards Azerbaijan in Armenian society is not unambiguous, and it is important to maintain a certain caution in this matter. It is reported that there may be a demand for agricultural products, especially Lori cheese, among the products to be brought from Armenia to Azerbaijan. The familiarity of people from Western Azerbaijan with this product may allow it to form a certain customer base. In general, it is possible for Armenian products to find buyers in Azerbaijan, but for this, the quality of the products and consumer demand will be key factors."
The deputy said that it is considered natural to have certain doubts about the quality of food products to be imported from Armenia. However, it is important to regulate this issue at the state level and to exercise strict control over the quality of products. Consumers are also expected to act cautiously in the initial stage. If the products are of high quality and accepted by the Azerbaijani consumer, demand for them may increase over time. Regarding buying Armenian-made products himself, he stated that he has no such intention in the initial stage, and it may be possible to consider it after a certain period, depending on the situation.
"It is noted that the expansion of trade relations can also affect political relations. The establishment of economic ties between the two countries can help reduce hostile relations between societies and foster mutual communication. In this regard, trade is emphasized as important for both Azerbaijan and Armenia in the long-term perspective," he said.
According to E. Musayev, Armenian products are not expected to pose a serious threat to local producers. Due to Armenia's lack of a large economy and extensive production capabilities, a large influx of products into Azerbaijan is not expected. In addition, Azerbaijan's export of energy resources, oil, and other products to Armenia can also play an important role in the development of mutual economic relations. The cautious behavior of the parties in the initial stage is considered a natural process.
Deputy Azay Guliyev stated in his announcement that the import of Armenian goods to Azerbaijan is of a test nature:
"At the current stage, the establishment of trade relations with Armenia has significant practical importance both emotionally and in terms of peace and mutual trust. After many years of occupation and conflict, the import of Armenian goods to Azerbaijan is of a test nature in terms of overcoming certain psychological barriers. It is normal for society to approach this process with caution, and it requires a certain amount of time.
On the other hand, strengthening mutual trust is essential for ensuring lasting peace. The restoration of economic and trade relations can play an important role in forming this trust. Armenian society must see in real life that cooperation with Azerbaijan is more beneficial than conflict and unfounded territorial claims. Azerbaijan has taken the first step in this direction. Transit restrictions towards Armenia have been lifted, and the export of energy products has begun. In January-June of this year, Azerbaijan's exports to Armenia amounted to 17.129 million dollars, and imports from Armenia to Azerbaijan amounted to 960 dollars. For this reason, an increase in the import of various goods from Armenia to Azerbaijan is expected in the near future."
"The quality and safety of products entering Azerbaijan from Armenia must be checked in accordance with the requirements of the country's legislation. It is understandable that citizens have concerns about these products, but there should be no serious cause for concern given state control and existing standards," he said.
The deputy stated that in the matter of buying or not buying Armenian goods, emotional and psychological factors are expected to prevail in the initial stage. However, over time, the main criteria will be the quality of the product, its price, and the value it provides to the consumer.
According to Azay Guliyev, this process is considered part of the new security and cooperation model that Azerbaijan wants to establish in the South Caucasus. The establishment of economic and trade relations without a formal peace agreement can create a new and positive precedent in terms of peacebuilding.
Nicat Rustam
