A public discussion entitled “Existing Problems in Milk and Meat Production and the Assessment of Their Impact on Food Safety” was held

The event was organized by the Public Council under the Small and Medium Business Development Agency (KOBİA) with the support of the Ministry of Agriculture of Azerbaijan. The discussion, held at the Baku SME House, brought together representatives of the State Tax Service under the Ministry of Economy, the Food Safety Agency of Azerbaijan, the State Customs Committee, other government bodies and business associations, as well as nearly 80 entrepreneurs operating in the relevant field.

Chairman of the Public Council under KOBİA Emin Dostiyari stated that the purpose of the event was to discuss the current situation in the milk and meat production sector, listen to the opinions and proposals of entrepreneurs, and facilitate a mutual exchange of views on food safety issues.

In his speech, Minister of Agriculture Majnun Mammadov noted that systematic state support mechanisms are being implemented to stimulate the development of the livestock sector. During 2021–2025, preferential incentives totaling AZN 89.8 million were provided for the purchase of 25,615 heads of cattle and more than 8,000 heads of small ruminants, while over AZN 128 million in low-interest concessional loans were extended to more than 10,000 business entities. Vaccination against particularly dangerous diseases is fully financed by the state budget. The Minister also emphasized the significant potential of the liberated territories for livestock development and the consistent implementation of targeted policies in these areas.

Chairman of the Board of KOBİA Orkhan Mammadov highlighted the strategic importance of milk and meat production in terms of food safety and stressed the need for a systematic approach to existing challenges. He underlined the close interconnection between factors such as feed supply, veterinary control, organization of the production and supply chain, compliance with standards, and awareness-raising activities. It was noted that ensuring the sustainability of micro and small enterprises operating in the milk and meat sector is crucial for regional socio-economic development and increased employment.

Within the framework of the event, the Ministry of Agriculture delivered a presentation on state policy and targets for the development of the livestock sector, entrepreneurs’ proposals were heard, and their questions were addressed.