Azerbaijan Boosts Grain Subsidies to Promote Water-Saving Technologies
Azerbaijan's government has introduced a new subsidy structure for grain and crop production to optimize agricultural output and promote resource efficiency. The Agrarian Subsidy Council implemented this differentiated system, taking into account irrigation methods and production specialization.
The move aligns with the 'State Program for the Development of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Production and Processing for 2026-2030,' approved by President of Azerbaijan on May 25, 2026. Modern irrigation systems are now eligible for higher subsidies: wheat cultivation will receive 400 AZN per hectare in 22 specialized districts, double that provided for traditional or rain-fed cultivation at 200 AZN per hectare.
Similar increases have been applied to other crops grown under modern irrigation systems, with subsidies raised to 500 AZN per hectare for potatoes and vegetables, as well as chickpeas, beans, and other legumes. Melon crops will receive 310 AZN per hectare. In mountainous regions and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, subsidies have been increased to 600 AZN per hectare for those utilizing modern irrigation and 400 AZN per hectare for other cultivation methods.