The Agrarian Subsidy Council of Azerbaijan has implemented a new, differentiated subsidy structure for grain cultivation, factoring in irrigation methods and production specialization. This strategic shift aims to optimize agricultural output and promote resource efficiency across the country's farming sector.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, citing the Ministry of Agriculture, this decision aligns with the "State Program for the Development of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Production and Processing for 2026–2030," approved by the President of Azerbaijan on May 25, 2026. Under the new guidelines, wheat cultivation using modern irrigation systems in 22 specialized districts will receive a subsidy of 400 AZN per hectare—double the amount provided for traditional or rain-fed cultivation, which is set at 200 AZN per hectare.
Furthermore, the government has increased support for other crops grown under modern irrigation systems. Subsidies for potatoes and vegetables, as well as chickpeas, beans, and other legumes, have been raised to 500 AZN per hectare, while melon crops will receive 310 AZN per hectare. In mountainous regions and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, subsidies for potato and vegetable cultivation have been increased to 600 AZN per hectare for those utilizing modern irrigation, and 400 AZN per hectare for other cultivation methods.
These adjustments represent a significant state effort to incentivize the adoption of water-saving technologies among farmers. By prioritizing modern irrigation, the Azerbaijani government seeks to enhance food security and improve the economic viability of the agricultural sector, ensuring more sustainable land use practices in the face of climate challenges.
