Azerbaijani envoy: Port infrastructure, logistics, renewable energy - new areas for co-op with Netherlands Business
In order to strengthen bilateral cooperation, Azerbaijan and the Netherlands intend to focus on the implementation of joint projects in the areas of seaport expansion, shipbuilding, transport, infrastructure and logistics, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the Netherlands Mammad Ahmadzada said in an interview with The Holland Times, Olaylar informs.
"Economic cooperation is a cornerstone of relations between Azerbaijan and the Netherlands, characterized by steady growth in trade, investment, and joint projects. As of 2024, around 130 Dutch companies operate in Azerbaijan. Dutch investments in Azerbaijan total about $1.5 billion, mainly in non-oil sectors, aligning with Azerbaijan's strategic goal of economic diversification. Azerbaijani investment in the Netherlands exceeds $2.5 billion. Bilateral trade increased by 60% in 2024 compared to the previous year, reflecting higher import of industrial goods and technology from the Netherlands, and growing energy exports from Azerbaijan.
Agriculture and water management are prominent areas of cooperation. Dutch expertise in sustainable agriculture, greenhouse technology, and water management has contributed to modernizing Azerbaijan's agricultural sector. This collaboration can enhance food security and productivity. Given Azerbaijan's focus on environmental sustainability, Dutch companies are also involved in water rehabilitation projects. In 2024, the minister of agriculture of Azerbaijan visited the Netherlands to deepen cooperation in these areas," he noted.
"Azerbaijan's strategic location makes it a key transit hub between Europe and Asia, playing a pivotal role in the development of the Middle Corridor. Dutch companies have participated in engineering works at the Port of Baku, enhancing its capacity as a multimodal hub. Future projects will focus on sea port expansion, shipbuilding, transport, infrastructure and logistics.
With Azerbaijan's commitment to increase the share of renewables in its energy mix, there is substantial potential for collaboration with Dutch companies in wind, solar, and other renewable energy technologies.
I encourage Dutch export-oriented manufacturers to invest in the Alat Free Economic Zone (AFEZ) - a regional investment hub with a strategic location, modern infrastructure, and fiscal and non-fiscal incentives," he added.