The Milli Majlis (National Assembly) has approved, in its final reading, an expansion of the list of legal entities exempt from customs duties. This legislative update is part of broader efforts to incentivize domestic production and boost export capabilities within Azerbaijan.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the draft amendment to the law "On Customs Tariff" was discussed and subsequently adopted during today's session of the parliament's extraordinary session.
Under the new legislation, goods produced or processed within the Alat Free Economic Zone (AFEZ) by a designated "Free Zone" legal entity will be exempt from customs duties for 15 years from the date of the entity's establishment. This exemption applies provided that at least 50% of the locally produced or processed goods are exported outside the country. The measure aims to facilitate the integration of AFEZ-produced goods into the broader national economy while encouraging export-oriented industrial growth.
The law is scheduled to enter into force on January 1 of next year. The document was put to a vote and adopted in the third reading following parliamentary deliberations.
The Alat Free Economic Zone, established by President Ilham Aliyev, serves as a strategic hub designed to attract foreign direct investment and foster non-oil sector development in Azerbaijan. By offering tax and customs incentives, the zone aims to create a competitive business environment for international and local companies.
