The Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan has amended the excise rates for goods imported into the country, establishing specific quotas and tax reductions for fuel imports by the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR). According to the decree signed by Prime Minister Ali Asadov, the excise tax for AI-92 gasoline and diesel fuel imported by SOCAR will be temporarily reduced to 1 manat per ton for a specified period.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that the new regulations apply to imports conducted between May 1, 2026, and March 31, 2027. During this timeframe, the upper limit for AI-92 gasoline imports has been set at 205,000 tons, while the limit for diesel fuel stands at 201,000 tons. The primary objective of this decision is to ensure stability within the domestic fuel market and maintain an uninterrupted supply of energy resources for consumers in Azerbaijan.
These measures are part of Azerbaijan's broader strategy to manage domestic energy prices and mitigate the impact of global market fluctuations. By adjusting excise duties and setting import quotas, the government aims to balance the production capacity of local refineries, such as the Heydar Aliyev Baku Oil Refinery, with the growing domestic demand. This regulatory approach allows the Cabinet of Ministers to provide a flexible response to energy security needs while supporting the operational efficiency of SOCAR, the country's primary state-owned energy entity.