The new draft law on "Seed Production," currently under discussion, holds significant importance for strengthening Azerbaijan's food security, protecting the national gene pool, and bolstering economic independence in the agricultural sector. Recent global events, including conflicts, pandemics, climate change, and disruptions in international supply chains, have underscored a critical reality for all nations: food security is an integral component of national security.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, this statement was made by Member of Parliament Zahid Oruj during the plenary session of the Milli Majlis (National Assembly) while discussing the draft law on "Seed Production" in the Republic of Azerbaijan.
Oruj emphasized that understanding the essence of any legislation requires examining its historical development:
"The foundation for the development of seed production and selection in Azerbaijan was laid during the leadership of National Leader Heydar Aliyev. During those years, Azerbaijan was one of the leading centers in the former Soviet Union for the creation, protection, and application of high-yield plant varieties. Upon his return to power, the National Leader prioritized agricultural development as a key pillar of state policy. Land reforms, the restructuring of agriculture to align with market relations, and the formation of farming enterprises provided new impetus to the sector."
The MP noted that the unique agricultural products of each region in Azerbaijan were the result of long-term selection work and the preservation of local genetic resources. "Gedebey apples, Goychay pomegranates, Lankaran tea, Gedebey potatoes, Sheki tobacco, Zagatala hazelnuts, Aghstafa grain, and Sabirabad melons and watermelons were renowned for their taste and quality, serving as agricultural brands of our country. It is no coincidence that in the mid-20th century, various varieties of Goychay pomegranates were exported to dozens of countries worldwide," he added.
Addressing concerns regarding the quality of modern produce, Oruj posed a rhetorical question: "Why have some local products lost their former taste and quality?" He explained that one reason is the gradual replacement of local varieties with hybrid ones in pursuit of higher yields. While hybrid seeds are more productive and resilient for transport, meeting the demands of large retail chains, they often sideline the preservation of local genetic resources. Oruj concluded that while learning from the experiences of countries like France and the United States is valuable, the development of national selection schools and the protection of the local gene pool must remain a central focus of state policy.
