AmCham Azerbaijan Encourages Members to Participate in AIREX 2026

Following the announcement of our strategic partnership with AIREX – the first-ever Azerbaijan International Real Estate Exhibition, AmCham Azerbaijan is pleased to invite all our members and the international business community to explore participation opportunities at this landmark event.📅 Date: 4–6 November 2026📍 Venue: Baku Expo CenterBringing together real estate developers, investors, architects, proptech companies, financial institutions, and industry leaders from more than 20 countries, AIREX 2026 will serve as a dynamic platform for investment, networking, and the development of new commercial partnerships.As part of this strategic partnership, international companies can benefit from an exclusive 25% discount on participation packages.AmCham Azerbaijan encourages companies operating in the fields of real estate, construction, investment, urban development, architecture, engineering, proptech, financial services, and related sectors to take advantage of this opportunity and showcase their business at AIREX 2026.For more information or to express your interest in participating, please contact the AmCham Azerbaijan team at chamber@amchamaz.org.

AmCham Azerbaijan hosted the Inaugural Meeting of the Food and Agriculture Working Group.

Baku, July 28, 2026 – AmCham Azerbaijan held the inaugural meeting of its Food and Agriculture Working Group, bringing together member companies, government representatives, and industry experts to officially launch the Group’s activities, define its key priorities, and strengthen collaboration across Azerbaijan’s food and agriculture sector.The meeting was opened by Mr. Zaur Kerimov, Executive Director of AmCham Azerbaijan, who emphasized that Agro-Food has been identified as one of AmCham Azerbaijan’s Strategic Priorities for 2026–2028. He noted that the Working Group will serve as an important platform for strengthening public-private dialogue, fostering cooperation among industry stakeholders, and promoting initiatives that contribute to the sustainable development of the sector.This was followed by remarks from Mr. Niyazi Amirbeyov, Member of the Board of Directors of AmCham Azerbaijan and CEO of AgroDairy, who highlighted the strategic importance of the food and agriculture sector to Azerbaijan’s economy. He underlined the Working Group’s role in encouraging collaboration among businesses, facilitating the exchange of expertise, and advancing the common interests of the private sector.Addressing the participants, Mr. Mushfig Jafarov, Member of the Milli Majlis of the Republic of Azerbaijan, stressed the importance of continuous cooperation between the public and private sectors. He noted that initiatives supporting the food and agriculture sector would contribute to the country's economic development and the strengthening of food security.During the meeting, Mr. Elkhan Mikayilov, Chair of the Food and Agriculture Working Group, presented the Group’s vision, objectives, and priority areas. His presentation outlined the Working Group’s planned activities, future initiatives, and opportunities for collaboration among member companies and relevant stakeholders.The discussion session featured contributions from Mr. Vugar Zeynalov, Vice President of the Azerbaijan Confederation of Entrepreneurs, Mr. Ilgar Nuri, Deputy CEO for Corporate Functions at Veyseloglu Group of Companies, and Mr. Ilham Abdullayev, Business Development Director at Azersun Holding . The speakers shared their perspectives on the current challenges facing the food and agriculture sector, future development opportunities, and areas for enhanced cooperation. Other participants also contributed their views and recommendations, engaging in a constructive exchange on the future activities and priorities of the Working Group.The meeting concluded with a Q&A session followed by closing remarks. It was emphasized that the Working Group will continue its activities on an ongoing basis, with future meetings focusing on addressing priority issues for the sector and fostering closer collaboration with relevant stakeholders.The establishment of the Food and Agriculture Working Group represents an important milestone in advancing AmCham Azerbaijan's 2026–2028 strategic priorities. The initiative is designed to support the sustainable development of the food and agriculture sector, strengthen public-private dialogue, and bring together the business community on a unified platform to address shared opportunities and challenges. 

"ZƏKA" National Artificial Intelligence Awards to be Launched in Azerbaijan

A major new initiative aimed at advancing Azerbaijan's artificial intelligence ecosystem is set to launch with the introduction of the "ZƏKA" National Artificial Intelligence Awards. The awards are established to identify, recognize, and promote innovative AI projects, technological solutions, startups, and creative initiatives, while celebrating outstanding achievements in the field of artificial intelligence.The project is jointly organized by AmCham Azerbaijan, InnMedia, and Safaroff Agency.Established in line with the national priorities outlined in the Artificial Intelligence Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2025–2028 and the Strategy for the Development of the Digital Economy for 2026–2029, "ZƏKA" will serve as a unified platform that fosters collaboration among the public sector, private sector, startup ecosystem, academia, and creative industries.The primary objective of the "ZƏKA" National Artificial Intelligence Awards is to identify and promote innovative ideas and technological solutions emerging in Azerbaijan's AI sector, recognize the achievements of individuals, teams, and organizations contributing to its development, and encourage the growth of pioneering initiatives. By uniting public institutions, businesses, startups, academia, researchers, and investors on a single platform, the initiative aims to strengthen cross-sector collaboration, facilitate knowledge exchange, foster new partnerships, and create opportunities for promising AI projects to scale. Furthermore, "ZƏKA" seeks to showcase the achievements of Azerbaijan's AI ecosystem to a broader audience and enhance the country's international recognition as an emerging hub for artificial intelligence and innovation.The initiative is implemented with the official support of the Innovation and Digital Development Agency (IDDA), the Small and Medium Business Development Agency (KOBIA), the Center for Analysis and Coordination of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR), and the National Artificial Intelligence Center (NAIC).The awards will be presented across the following five main categories:Government AI Solution of the Year – quality of public services, impact on citizens, technological innovation, and efficiency.Private AI Solution of the Year – commercial results, innovation, market impact, and technological advantage. AI Startup of the Year – innovation potential, team, market prospects, and investment attraction.AI Creator of the Year – creative content, use of AI tools, originality, and public impact. Tech Xəbər Choice– editorial choice, special contribution to AI, and an innovative approach.ApplicationsApplications will be accepted from 20 August to 15 September 2026.Individuals and organizations wishing to participate may submit their project description, technical documentation, demo version, and other supporting materials online via www.aiawards.az.For detailed information and applications, please visit: www.aiawards.azFor sponsorship and partnership opportunities, please contact: partners@aiawards.azFollowing the completion of the evaluation process, the winners of the "ZƏKA" National Artificial Intelligence Awards will be announced and honored during the official Gala Ceremony on 15 October 2026.The project's media partners include TechXəbər.az, AutoLife.az, InfoCity.Tech, Marja.az, Enerji FM, Netant and SMARTBEE.As an annual initiative, the "ZƏKA" National Artificial Intelligence Awards are expected to make a lasting contribution to the wider adoption of AI solutions in Azerbaijan, strengthen innovation-driven collaboration, promote promising technological initiatives, and reinforce the country's position as a regional center for innovation and technology.

AmCham Azerbaijan Announces New Appointment to the BFI Committee

AmCham Azerbaijan is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Emin Khalilov, Tribe Lead for Business Banking at Yelo Bank OJSC, as the new Deputy Chairperson of the BFI Committee.About the Deputy Chairperson:Emin Khalilov holds a Master's degree in Administration and Regulation of Business from the Azerbaijan State Economic University (UNEC). As the Tribe Lead for Business Banking at Yelo Bank OJSC, he leads the bank's business banking product portfolio, covering micro and SME lending, payments and acquiring, and digital channels. With more than 11 years of experience in Azerbaijan's banking sector, Emin has made significant contributions to the digital transformation of financial services.We wish the newly appointed Deputy Chairperson continued success in this role and look forward to his contributions to advancing the Committee’s objectives.

AmCham Azerbaijan is pleased to announce the establishment of the Food and Agriculture Working Group and the appointment of its Chairperson

AmCham Azerbaijan is pleased to announce the establishment of the Food and Agriculture Working Group, created within the Chamber's strategic Food and Agriculture agenda for 2026–2028 to support the sustainable and competitive development of Azerbaijan's Agro-Food sector. The Working Group will serve as a collaborative platform bringing together AmCham member companies, government institutions, and industry stakeholders to strengthen Business-to-Government dialogue and contribute to practical, business-oriented solutions for the sector. Its activities will focus on advancing Agro-innovations and technologies (Agriculture 4.0),improving access to finance and insurance market, supporting export competitiveness and alignment with international standards, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and ESG principles, and enhancing cooperation to address key challenges facing Azerbaijan's food and agriculture ecosystem. Through these efforts, the Working Group aims to contribute to the diversification and long-term development of Azerbaijan's non-oil economy in line with the country's national development priorities.In this regard, Dr. Elkhan Mikayilov, Director General of ASR Development Consulting Group, has been appointed as Chairperson of the Food and Agriculture Working Group.About the Chairperson:Dr. Elkhan Mikayilov, a distinguished expert in public administration, economic reform, and international trade policy, with more than 20 years of leadership and advisory experience in macroeconomic regulation, business and investment climate reform, and international trade policy, including Azerbaijan's WTO accession and EU integration processes.Elkhan is currently the Director General of ASR Development Consulting Group. He previously served as Head of Department at the Administration of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, coordinating the country's National Strategic Road Maps across 11 economic sectors, and as Chief of Staff at the Food Safety Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, where he led an institution of more than 1,000 staff and oversaw its institutionalization under ISO 9001 and ISO 37001 standards. He has also served as local head of the WTO Group under USAID trade programs and as National Program Manager for the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), coordinating major World Bank, IMF, and IFC projects on investment climate and private sector competitiveness.Elkhan holds a Ph.D. in Economics from the Scientific Research Institute of Economic Reforms, as well as Bachelor's and Master's degrees with honors from Azerbaijan State University of Economics (UNEC). Elkhan will chair AmCham Azerbaijan's newly established Food and Agriculture Working Group.We are pleased to welcome Dr. Elkhan Mikayilov to our community and look forward to his contributions to the Chamber's work on food and agriculture activity direction

AmCham Tax and Customs Committee Hosted Meeting titled “Corporate Formations and Asset Transfers: Tax Consequences, Basis Rules, and Risk Areas.”

On June 30, 2026, the AmCham Tax and Customs Committee Hosted Meeting titled “Corporate Formations and Asset Transfers: Tax Consequences, Basis Rules, and Risk Areas.”The event brought together AmCham member companies, tax professionals, legal practitioners, and private sector representatives to discuss the tax, legal, and practical considerations associated with corporate formations and asset contribution transactions under Azerbaijani legislation.The session commenced with opening remarks delivered by Ms. Sabina Khalilova, Chairperson of the AmCham Tax and Customs Committee, who welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of understanding the tax implications of corporate restructuring and asset transfers in ensuring effective business planning, compliance, and risk management.During the meeting, Ms. Isli Mahammadrasulova, Tax Chief Specialist at NEQSOL Holding, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the commercial rationale behind corporate formations and asset contribution transactions. She explored tax-neutral transfer mechanisms, tax basis implications, valuation and capital formation issues, VAT considerations, and common risk areas arising under Azerbaijani tax legislation. Drawing on practical experience, Ms. Mahammadrasulova also shared insights into effective transaction structuring, tax risk management strategies, and key considerations for minimizing potential tax exposures.The meeting concluded with an interactive Q&A session, providing participants with the opportunity to discuss practical challenges, exchange professional perspectives, and seek expert guidance on corporate structuring and taxation matters.

AmCham Azerbaijan Announces the Election of its First Vice President and Vice President for the 2026–2028 Term

The American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan) is proud to announce the election of Mr. Oscar Bogopolski, Chief Executive Officer of McDonald's Azerbaijan, as First Vice President, and Mr. Niyazi Amirbayov, Chief Executive Officer of AgroDairy, as Vice President for the 2026–2028 term, marking an important milestone in the Chamber's continued commitment to strong leadership, effective governance, and strategic growth.In their new leadership roles, Mr. Bogopolski and Mr. Amirbayov will work closely with the President and the Board of Directors to advance the Chamber’s strategic vision, strengthen engagement with members and stakeholders, and reinforce AmCham Azerbaijan’s mission of fostering a transparent, competitive, and sustainable business environment.Together with the newly elected Board of Directors, they will play a pivotal role in shaping the Chamber’s future by driving strategic initiatives, strengthening public-private dialogue, advancing policy advocacy, expanding member value, and promoting innovation and collaboration across Azerbaijan’s business community. Their leadership will further reinforce AmCham Azerbaijan’s position as the leading voice of the international business community and a trusted partner in supporting the country’s economic development.AmCham Azerbaijan warmly congratulates Mr. Oscar Bogopolski and Mr. Niyazi Amirbayov on their election and wishes them every success in their new roles. The Chamber is confident that their leadership, extensive expertise, and strategic vision will make a lasting contribution to AmCham Azerbaijan’s continued growth, influence, and success, while creating greater value for its members and the broader business community.

AmCham Banking, Finance and Insurance Committee Hosted Meeting on Property Insurance and Risk Protection

On June 30, 2026, the AmCham Banking, Finance and Insurance Committee organized a meeting titled “Property Insurance and Risk Protection: Ensuring the Safety of Homes and Businesses.”The event brought together representatives from the Ministry of Emergency Situations, the Central Bank of Azerbaijan, PASHA Insurance, PASHA Property Management, the Azerbaijan Insurers Association, AmCham member companies, and private sector professionals to discuss current property risks, the role of insurance protection, and sustainable approaches to risk management.The session commenced with opening remarks delivered by Mr. Vugar Namazov, Chairperson of the AmCham Banking, Finance and Insurance Committee, who welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation between the public and private sectors in promoting risk awareness, enhancing property protection, and supporting the development of Azerbaijan’s insurance market.During the meeting, Mr. Vusal Gurbanov, Director General of the Central Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan, presented the regulatory perspective on the development of the property insurance market and shared insights into ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening the sector. Mr. Rustam Mammadov, Deputy Chairman of the Management Board of PASHA Insurance OJSC, highlighted the importance of property insurance for businesses and property owners, emphasizing its role in protecting assets and improving financial resilience. The event also featured a panel discussion titled “Property Protection and Sustainable Approaches,” moderated by Mr. Ruslan Alakbarov, Director of Marketing and Customer Satisfaction Department at PASHA Insurance OJSC. The discussion brought together Mr. Abas Miskarli, Chairman and Executive Director of the Azerbaijan Insurers Association; Mr. Elbey Bababeyov, Head of the Legal Department of the State Agency for Construction Safety Control of the Ministry of Emergency Situations; Mr. Tural Aliyev, Chief Executive Officer of PASHA Property Management; and Mr. Aydin Rahmanov, Chief Executive Officer of Qala Life Insurance. Panelists explored key misconceptions surrounding property insurance, effective risk management practices, opportunities for strengthening cooperation among stakeholders, and practical approaches to enhancing resilience against property-related risks. The meeting concluded with an interactive Q&A session, providing participants with the opportunity to engage directly with the speakers and exchange views on current challenges and future priorities for advancing property insurance and risk protection in Azerbaijan.

AmCham Azerbaijan Education & Vocational Working Group’s June meeting

On June 23, 2026, the AmCham Education & Vocational Working Group organized a meeting titled “Education Leadership”. The purpose of the meeting was to reflect on the Education & Vocational Working Group’s activities and achievements throughout the year, assess the outcomes of its key initiatives and partnerships, and exchange perspectives on future priorities for strengthening education, skills development, and workforce readiness in Azerbaijan. The session also provided an opportunity to recognize the contributions of partner organizations and highlight successful collaborative efforts between the education sector and the business community.The session commenced with welcoming remarks delivered by Mr. Francesco Banchini, who welcomed participants and reflected on the Working Group’s activities throughout the year, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the education sector, businesses, and industry stakeholders in preparing future talent and supporting workforce development in Azerbaijan.During the meeting, Mr. Banchini and the Deputy Chairpersons of the Working Group jointly delivered a comprehensive presentation highlighting the key initiatives, achievements, and collaborative projects implemented throughout the year. The speakers shared data-driven insights gathered through various activities and provided an overview of the impact of the Working Group’s efforts on students, educational institutions, and industry partners.The presentation also featured reflections and feedback from students participating in educational programs, as well as insights into skills expectations and workforce readiness requirements in emerging markets. Particular attention was given to the outcomes of pilot initiatives conducted during the year, key lessons learned, and opportunities for further development and collaboration.In addition, the speakers recognized and celebrated partner companies and organizations whose active engagement and support contributed significantly to the success of the Working Group’s projects and initiatives.The meeting concluded with an interactive discussion on future priorities and opportunities for strengthening cooperation between education providers and the business community, reaffirming the Working Group’s commitment to advancing education and vocational development in Azerbaijan.

AmCham Azerbaijan Elects New Board of Directors and President at 2026 Annual General Meeting

American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan) successfully held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on June 17, 2026, bringing together members of the Chamber for one of the organization's most important annual events. The AGM featured the election of the new Board of Directors and President, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Chamber's leadership.The Annual General Meeting opened with welcoming remarks from Mr. Zaur Karimov, Executive Director of AmCham Azerbaijan. He warmly welcomed members and guests, expressed appreciation to the outgoing Board of Directors for their dedication and service to the Chamber, and recognized the candidates standing for election for their willingness to contribute to AmCham's future development. Mr. Karimov highlighted the Chamber's achievements over the past year and underscored the importance of strong leadership and member engagement in advancing the organization's mission.The meeting was chaired by Mr. Emil Huseynov from Azerbaijani HR Institute, who was elected Chairman of the General Meeting. Mr. Adil Huseyn and Ms. Saadat Mutalimova served as tellers. During the proceedings, Mr. Huseynov introduced the 15 candidates competing for 10 available seats on the Board of Directors.The outgoing President of AmCham Azerbaijan, Mr. Dayanat Sadullayev highlighted the Chamber's key accomplishments and milestones achieved during his tenure. In his farewell address, he reflected on the initiatives undertaken under his leadership, expressed sincere appreciation to the AmCham community for its unwavering commitment and support, and extended his best wishes to the incoming Board as they continue advancing the Chamber's mission and strategic priorities.The election process was conducted through a confidential ballot among the authorized representatives of AmCham's Regular Members—respected business leaders recognized for their strong reputation and standing within the business community.Following the vote count, the Chairman officially announced the newly elected Board of Directors, who will serve a two-year term from 2026 to 2028:Nuran Kerimov, Managing Partner, Deloitte Oscar Bogopolski, CEO, McDonald's AzerbaijanNiyazi Amirbayov, CEO, AgroDairyImran Ahmadzada, Head of NEQSOL Holding Azerbaijan and CFO of NEQSOL Holding GlobalElyar Aliyev, Vice President Legal, bp Azerbaijan, Georgia and Türkiye RegionSharaf Asgarova, Corporate Affairs Manager, PMIIlham Azizov, Founder and Director, iTech Group LLCRamil Eyyubov, Regional Director, Caucasus and Central Asia, CiscoGunay Jalilova, Deputy CEO, Yelo BankOrkhan Mikayil, CEO, Aqualink LLCIn the second part of the election process, Mr. Nuran Kerimov, Managing Partner at Deloitte, was elected President of AmCham Azerbaijan for the upcoming term. As AmCham Azerbaijan looks ahead, the Chamber remains committed to strengthening the business environment, fostering public-private dialogue, and supporting the continued development of trade and investment opportunities in Azerbaijan.