"The presence of the Russian market, where the price differences can be as much as USD $1/kg compared to European prices, gives us the opportunity of finding a buyer who is willing to pay more than what the Turkish market has set. The second factor is the USD/TRY currency ratio, which is a fixed USD. Sometimes due to the fixed prices with the USD rate, our prices seems a bit high in compare to Turkish prices (including this season and the last) but this has a lot to do with the lower exchange rate for the Turkish Lira. We are keeping with the fixed rates, making us very competitive against Turkish exporters, and are seeing increased demand from Europe," shared Nizami Emreli from Azerstar LLC Hazelnut Ind. Co.
According to the INC (International Nut and Dried Fruit Council), this year Azerbaijan will have around 45,000 tons of hazelnuts in the shell, which equates to 17,000 tons of hazelnut kernels. According to Emreli, 8000 tons of hazelnut kernels have been sold out.
The current price for Turkish 11-13 mm hazelnut kernels is $5.30 USD/kg DAP Europe, compared to $5.50 USD/kg DAP Europe for Azerbaijani kernels.
"Azerbaijan has seen a lot of growth in the agricultural sector and has been present at international trade fairs during the last 3 years. The Ministry of Economic development, along with some help from State Customs Committee, has brought us vital tools to boost international trade, such as the new ISO 17025 accredited lab in Zagatala, where all of the major exporters are located. The new modern state laboratory in Zaqatala checks for aflatoxin in each lot prepared for export. Without the aflatoxin test, our goods can not be exported," Emreli continued.
"We currently have 55,000 ha of hazelnut production, with government plans to increase that to 80,000 ha. Important news for many Azerbaijani's, where hazelnuts are the main source of income for many families."
For more information:
Nizami Emreli (Regional CEO Europe)
Azerstar LLC Hazelnut Ind. Co.
Tel: +37255678090
Email: emreli@azerstar.com
www.azerstar.com