Wine in Azerbaijan

PROSPECTS

Import tax hike boosts consumption of domestic wine brands

Taxes on wine imports increased in Azerbaijan in 2018. For example, the import tax on still light grape wine and fortified wine rose from AZN2.

Local wine producers increase export volumes in 2018

The Azerbaijan Wine Producers and Exporters Association recorded a significant increase in exports in 2018. Wine exports to Ukraine, Belarus, Central Asian countries and the Baltic States rose in volume terms, as did those to Russia, traditionally the main export market for wine produced in Azerbaijan.

Despite low per capita consumption, outlook for wine remains positive

Although wine is becoming more popular in Azerbaijan, per capita consumption remains relatively low. This reflects the fact that most Azerbaijanis still see wine as a drink for special or celebratory occasions, rather than one for regular consumption, such as with evening meals, for example.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Ganja-Sharab continues to lead wine in Azerbaijan

Ganja-Sharab Wine Factory JSC continued to lead wine in 2018. The competitive environment remained fairly stable, with domestic players continuing to account for the lion’s share of sales and no major changes in the positions of the top companies.

Az-Granata introduces new non-alcoholic wine product

2018 saw Az-Granata MMC launch a new non-alcoholic wine product under its Rubai brand. This product, which the company claims is the first of its kind in Azerbaijan, is aimed at health-conscious consumers and those who want to enjoy a glass of wine without inhibiting their capacity to drive home safely.

New initiative to promote local wine production launched in 2018

In May 2018, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree approving the “State Program for the Development of Winemaking in Azerbaijan 2018-2025”. This initiative, the latest in a series of measures aimed at expanding the country’s winemaking industry, should have a positive impact on domestic wine consumption over the forecast period, while also helping local producers to increase exports.

Files are delivered directly into your account within a few minutes of purchase.