Fish prices rise in Azerbaijan as prices for key varieties climb

Demand for fish has risen with the arrival of autumn, but higher prices in markets are forcing shoppers to make difficult choices. Sellers say prices have increased particularly for trout, kutum and several other fish varieties. They cite shortages of locally produced fish, seasonal factors and the balance between supply and demand as the main reasons.

"Operativ Məlumat Mərkəzi-OMM" reports, citing ITV, that prices at fish markets vary depending on the type and size of the fish.

Sellers say trout costs 10-14 manats per kilogram, while salmon is priced at 35 manats. Kutum prices have also risen. The fish, which previously sold for 8-12 manats, now costs as much as 20-35 manats in some cases.

According to sellers, pike-perch starts at 8-10 manats per kilogram, while larger fish cost up to 13-15 manats. Carp sells for about 6 manats, grass carp for 8-9 manats, and mullet for 8-10 manats. Pike-perch brought from Mingachevir costs between 6 and 12 manats.

Shoppers also complain about price increases

Shoppers say fish they used to buy at affordable prices now costs more. They also say some varieties have become harder to find.

“We used to buy trout for 10-11 manats; now we pay 13 manats. Kutum is also expensive because there is less of it. Prices differ by 2-3 manats,” one shopper said.

Prices may stabilize in the coming months

The Fisheries and Aquaculture Center said sales from pond farms are expected to increase in November and December. This could boost supplies of carp and other fish of the carp family, helping stabilize prices or even bring them down somewhat.

The center said fish prices depend on market supply and demand. It also plans to develop fish farms in Azerbaijan, support fish farmers and introduce subsidy mechanisms. These measures are expected to increase local production and improve the availability of fish on the market.

Fish and fish products rise 8.5% in a year

According to the State Statistics Committee, fish and fish product prices rose 1.9% in September compared with the previous month.

Prices were up 8.5% from September last year and rose 8.3% in January-September 2026 compared with the same period a year earlier.