AHK Impuls

On 1 November 2023, German-Azerbaijani Chamber of Commerce (AHK Azerbaijan) organized the next AHK Impuls event for its member companies. The honorary guest speaker, Mr Mammad Aslan Abbasbeyli, Head of the State Service for Antimonopoly and Consumer Market Control, spoke on the topic of “Advancing Competition and Public Procurement: Regulatory Reforms”. Following this, Mr Ahmad Hasanov, Head of the Public Procurement Department at the State Service for Antimonopoly and Consumer Market Control, conducted a workshop with business representatives.

The event was initiated with the opening speech of the Executive Director of AHK Azerbaijan, Mr Tobias Baumann, who welcomed the member companies and introduced the speakers before handing over the floor to an honorary guest of the event, Mr Mammad Aslan Abbasbeyli.

In his speech, Mr Abbasbeyli welcomed the guests and highlighted the State Service's active role in government-private sector engagement. He emphasized their commitment to building a sustainable economy and fostering growth through the private sector. Mr. Abbasbeyli also stressed the importance of clear and open regulatory formats and explained their efforts in simplifying and interpreting complex regulations.

He discussed the four main regulatory mandates designed to benefit consumers and support businesses, including competition code, public procurement, quality, and consumer protection. Mr Abbasbeyli announced significant reforms in the competition legislation, updating outdated laws to reflect the current economic reality. He also introduced a government program to improve the competitive environment, emphasizing the collective responsibility of various government agencies.

Additionally, Mr Abbasbeyli mentioned efforts to educate the younger generation about competition economics to prepare them for future careers in the business world. Finally, he outlined key features of the new public procurement law, including expanded scope, digitalization, budget transparency, blacklisting of process-manipulating businesses, framework agreements, and a waiting period for potential complaints.

Then, Mr Tobias Baumann gave the floor to the honorary guest speaker of the event, Mr Ahmad Hasanov.

In his speech, Mr Ahmad Hasanov extended a warm welcome to the esteemed guests and delivered an insightful presentation on the implementation of the new public procurement law. During his address, he covered a range of topics, including the historical evolution of the law, the importance of compliance with legal provisions, and the various updates and enhancements made to the legislation to ensure its contemporary relevance.

After his speech, Mr Hasanov answered questions raised by the AHK Azerbaijan members and expressed his gratitude to the Chamber for the given opportunity to have direct dialogue with the representatives of relevant sectors. The event was concluded with a networking lunch. More

On 4 July 2023, the German-Azerbaijani Chamber of Commerce (AHK Azerbaijan) organised the next AHK Impuls with the participation of over 70 representatives from members and partners of the Chamber. The honorary guest speaker Mr Shahin Baghirov, Chairman of the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan, spoke on the topic of “Customs Regulations in Azerbaijan: Current Trends and Enhancing Public-Private Cooperation”. Also at the meeting, Ms Sevinj Rahimova, the Founder and Director of SERA Holding LLC, gave information about the services and activities of Smart Finans LLC.

Opening the event, Mr Tobias Baumann, Executive Director of AHK Azerbaijan, welcomed the member companies, greeted the representatives of the diplomatic missions, introduced the speakers and expressed his gratitude towards Smart Finans LLC for supporting the AHK Impuls event. He then passed the floor to Ms Sevinj Rahimova.

In her keynote address, Ms Sevinj Rahimova welcomed the guests and gave information about the activities and services of Smart Finans LLC, which is a part of SERA Holding. Ms Rahimova said the company provides finance, accounting, consulting and audit services. She also spoke about customs services, which are among the most exciting subjects for entrepreneurs, and emphasised the state's support for this area.

Then Mr Tobias Baumann gave the floor to the honorary guest speaker of the event Mr Shahin Baghirov.

In his speech, Mr Shahin Baghirov welcomed the event participants and said that the State Customs Committee is always open to such initiatives and emphasised the importance of these kinds of meetings contributing to business-customs partnership. First, Mr Bagirov gave extensive information about the strategic goals, missions and principles of the State Customs Committee.

Later, Mr Baghirov shared detailed information about each of the completed projects. Mr Baghirov also highly appreciated the cooperation of the companies in the completion of the electron account application, as well as he said that since May 10 of the current year, all entrepreneurs carrying out import-export operations have become users of the electronic account application and informed that the mobile data of the application is already available. Mr Baghirov also stressed the importance of requesting the electronic notification form from the customs offices.

Following this, Mr Baghirov said that the ongoing projects were carried out on the basis of regular discussions and gave extensive information about the risk management system project. Mr Baghirov also said that they will be able to check whether the products brought to the country of this project have been approved not only by the State Customs Committee but also by other institutions through the risk management system.

At the end of his speech, Mr Shahin Baghirov emphasised the importance of the principle of transparency and called on private sector representatives to cooperate with the customs authorities.

The event was followed by concluded with a question-and-answer session, lively discussions and a business networking dinner. Mehr

On 7 April 2023, the German-Azerbaijani Chamber of Commerce (AHK Azerbaijan) organised the next AHK Impuls event with the participation of more than 60 company representatives and partners of the Chamber. The honorary guest speaker of the event, Mr Emin Huseynov, Special Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the liberated territories of the Karabakh Economic Region (except Shusha district), spoke on the topic "Reconstruction works and investment opportunities in the liberated territories of the Karabakh Economic Region". The event mainly revolved around the investment potential of the liberated territories, the efforts so far and the way ahead.

In his opening remarks, Mr Tobias Baumann, Executive Board Member of AHK Azerbaijan, welcomed the participants and expressed his gratitude to the Yelo Bank OJSC for supporting the event. He then passed the floor to Mr Emin Huseynov, the honorary guest speaker of the event.

Mr Huseynov gave information about the reconstruction works and development in Karabakh region: “The initial stage in Karabakh began with demining activities, and this process lasted for a year. Reconstruction works are currently underway in Karabakh, and vigorous activities continues, especially in transport and logistics, energy and water, and communication lines.”

Speaking about the business opportunities in Karabakh and the investment potential of the area, Special Representative of the President in the Karabakh Economic Region: "The potential investment opportunities in Karabakh mainly in agriculture, food industry, mining, tourism industry and the reconstruction of these areas is of high importance. Speaking about the restoration of the transport system and the construction works carried out in Karabakh in the last two years, he spoke about the transportational and logistical advantages of the newly built airports. Giving information about applying sustainable technologies and "Green Energy", Mr Emin Huseynov also touched upon the issue of creating a green zone in Karabakh. He stated that by the decision of President Ilham Aliyev, the processes to reduce potential CO2 emissions to zero by 2050 are being successfully implemented.

At the same time, Mr Huseynov emphasised German companies' contribution to Azerbaijan's economy. He noted that the successful continuation of these relations in the Karabakh region is also interesting for the economy of both countries.

In his speech, Mr Huseynov brought up the perspective of local investors and gave examples of opportunities for German investors and how to present incentives to potential investors.

The event was concluded with a question-and-answer session, lively discussions and a networking dinner afterwards. More

On 13 December 2022, AHK Azerbaijan organised the next AHK Impuls with the participation of over 50 representatives from members and partners of AHK Azerbaijan. The event was dedicated to the prospects of energy transition in Azerbaijan and maintaining energy security. The honorary guest speaker was Mr Samir Valiyev, Deputy Minister of Energy of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Dr Michael Hilmer, Vice President at Uniper Global Commodities SE and Mr Vitaly Yakovlev, Managing Partner at KPMG Azerbaijan Limited further contributed their remarks on energy transition.

Opening the event, Mr Tobias Baumann, Executive Director of AHK Azerbaijan, welcomed the member companies, greeted the representatives of the diplomatic missions, introduced the speakers and expressed his gratitude towards KPMG Azerbaijan Limited for supporting this AHK Impuls event.

In his keynote, Mr Samir Valiyev pointed out that Azerbaijan is currently on the third level of its energy strategy, which is focused on consolidating energy security for Azerbaijan and also its partners.

Speaking about the development of bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Germany, Mr Valiyev noted: “Azerbaijan is a key trade partner for Germany in the South Caucasus. Last year, the bilateral trade turnover increased by 57% and was close to 1.3 billion USD.  During the last four years, Germany has been supplied with more than 5.7 million tonnes of Azerbaijani oil. From January to August this year, crude oil accounted for 96.6% of our exports to Germany.”

Mr Valiyev then turned to renewable energies and first highlighted Azerbaijan’s high potential and stressed the positive environment, in which private investments are replacing government investment, highlighting Azerbaijan as a reliable partner.  

Following this keynote, Dr Hilmer gave insights into the energy transition in Germany. He proudly announced that this AHK Impuls is also the kick-off event for the newly established AHK Working Group on Energy Transition.

Mr Yakovlev brought in the perspective of local investors and gave examples of how to provide incentives to potential investors to support the energy transition.

These three perspectives were followed by a lively question and answer session and a networking dinner. More

On 6 July 2022, the German-Azerbaijani Chamber of Commerce (AHK Azerbaijan) organised the next AHK Impuls event for its member companies. The event was dedicated to employment policies and practices in Azerbaijan. The honorary guest speaker of the event, Mr Mustafa Abbasbeyli, Chairman of the Board of the State Employment Agency under the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population of the Republic of Azerbaijan delivered a speech on "Role of Employment Policy in Ensuring Economic Development". 

Opening the event, Mr Tobias Baumann, Executive Board Member of AHK Azerbaijan, welcomed the member companies and partners before introducing and handing over the floor to the honorary guest of the event, Mr Mustafa Abbasbeyli.

In his speech, Mr Abbasbeyli emphasised the ministry’s aim to attract and retain as many people as possible in the active labour market, i.e., the taxpayers, underlining how a disturbance in the transition between the active labour market contributors and social security beneficiaries would be detrimental to the economic state. He then stated how the Azerbaijani labour market legislation continued to be socially oriented but aimed at transitioning into a hybrid model, which would be a balance between the social state and liberal economy.

Mr Abbasbeyli then provided details on the relationship between economic and population growth, which in the case of developing nations such as Azerbaijan, is defined by stronger population growth than an economic one. This leads to issues such as not being able to provide sufficient job positions. Yet, it is also an advantage as population growth means more consumption and demand in the economy, increasing the GDP through production growth, thus, creating more employment.

Mr Abbasbeyli highlighted the significance of applying innovation, especially in economic sectors with high employment but low productivity, such as agriculture, as well as underlining the size of the informal economy in Azerbaijan, which is estimated to equal to the number of labour agreements.

Moreover, he expressed the importance of the digital economy and digital transformation. The ministry is one of the most innovative government bodies, with more than 100 services out of 130 being provided electronically. Finally, the Chairman of the Board of the State Employment Agency concluded his speech by emphasising the significance of SME development in increasing economic sustainability and diversification.

 The event then continued with a Q&A session accompanied by a networking dinner. More

On 10 February 2022, the German-Azerbaijani Chamber of Commerce organised the next AHK Impuls event for its member companies. The honorary guest speaker of the event, Mr Vusal Huseynov, Chief of the State Migration Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan, delivered a speech on "Migration Management in Azerbaijan: Addressing New Challenges". The event was held at the Hyatt Regency Baku Hotel in strict compliance with all requirements of a quarantine regime and recommendations for safety and health.

Opening the event, Executive Director of AHK Azerbaijan, Mr Tobias Baumann welcomed the member companies and greeted the representatives of the diplomatic missions participating in the event before handing over the floor to the honorary guest of the event Mr Vusal Huseynov.

In his speech, Mr Huseynov provided detailed information on the main activities of the State Migration Service and the institutional reforms and regulations to improve the activities of the organisation. It was also announced that important steps have been taken to minimise the impact of the rules on the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the most important challenges of the last two years, on the private sector and the lives of migrants in the country. He emphasised the importance of improving services provided to entrepreneurs, creating new e-services and various benefits applied to legalise the residence of migrants within the country.

Furthermore, Mr Huseynov noted that a second important challenge is a growing demand for foreign labour in the country in connection with the restoration and construction work begun on the liberated territories. He said the quotas were increased accordingly, taking into account the growing demand in this direction. "Although the quota for 2021 has been set at 6,740 people, however out of necessity, this number has been increased by 1,000 people and reached 7,740 people. This number is predicted to be 8740 people in 2022. This will help revitalize the business environment and ease the quarantine regulations."

Considerations about the social projects of the State Migration Service, the Service Chief mentioned that work is underway on a project to establish a Regional Training Center for Migration in Azerbaijan, jointly implemented by the International Organization for Migration and the State Migration Service.

Speaking about the social projects of the State Migration Service, Mr Huseynov mentioned that currently, the work is underway on a project to establish a Regional Training Center for Migration in Azerbaijan, jointly implemented by the International Organisation for Migration and the State Migration Service.

Concluding his speech, Mr Huseynov expressed his gratitude to the German-Azerbaijani Chamber of Commerce for the given opportunity to have a direct dialogue with the representatives of the private sector. The event was concluded with a networking dinner. More

Deputy Head of the State Service for Antimonopoly and Consumer Market Control, Mammad Abbasbayli met AHK Azerbaijan members 

On 16 November 2021, the German-Azerbaijani Chamber of Commerce (AHK Azerbaijan) organised the next AHK Impuls event for its member companies. The event was held in the "Hyatt" hall of the "Hyatt Regency" Meeting and Conference Center in strict compliance with all requirements of a quarantine regime and recommendations for safety and health. The honorary guest speaker of the event, Mr. Mammad Abbasbayli, Deputy Head of the State Service for Antimonopoly and Consumer Market Control, delivered a speech on "Antimonopoly Regulation and Competition in Azerbaijan: Vision for the Future". 
 
The event was initiated with the opening speech of the Executive Director of AHK Azerbaijan, Mr. Tobias Baumann, who greeted the representatives of the diplomatic mission participating in the event before handing over the floor to an honorary guest of the event to Mr. Mammad Abbasbayli. 
 
By referring to the annual AHK Business Climate Survey recently launched by AHK Azerbaijan, Mr. Abbasbayli noted that ensuring transparency in public procurement and improving tender criteria and procedures are one of the main requirements outlined by the foreign companies for a sustainable business and investment climate in Azerbaijan. He noted that the results of the survey are being analysed by the organisation and the feedback and suggestions of the companies will be considered in the reform agenda moving forward.  
 
Then, Mr. Abbasbayli informed the participants about the activities of the State Service and the ongoing institutional reforms to improve the activities of the organisation. It was also noted that important steps have been taken recently towards sustainable economic growth through liberal and competitive economic policies. Speaking about the new directions identified for the promotion of competitive neutrality in the markets with direct state participation in order to further improve the business environment, Mr. Abbasbayli noted that a new improved draft of the Competition Code has been prepared taking into account both international experience and the conditions of economic growth of Azerbaijan. According to the Deputy Head, at present, the project is at the stage of coordination with the relevant structures. 
 
The event also provided information on the strategic goals of the State Service for Antimonopoly and Consumer Market Control. It was noted that the protection of a fair and free competitive environment that ensures the efficient and unimpeded operation of market participants, enhancing competitiveness in the national economy and supporting sustainable development, digitalisation of services, creation of a consumer-centric ecosystem are identified as the main priority goals and strategic pillars for 2022-2026. 
 
Concluding his speech, Mr. Abbasbayli expressed his gratitude to the German-Azerbaijani Chamber of Commerce for the given opportunity to have direct dialogue with the representatives of the private sector. The event was concluded with a networking dinner. Mehr

On 29 October 2021, the German-Azerbaijani Chamber of Commerce (AHK Azerbaijan) organised the next AHK Impuls event for its member companies. The honorary guest speaker of the event, Mr Safar Mehdiyev, Chairman of State Customs Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan, delivered a speech on the topic of "Strengthening Public-Private Partnership in Customs Control and Clearance". The event was held in the Hyatt Hall of the Hyatt Regency Baku Hotel in strict compliance with all requirements of the quarantine regime and recommendations for safety and health.

Opening the event, Mr Tobias Baumann, Executive Board Member of AHK Azerbaijan greeted the participants and briefly introduced the agenda of the event.

Following this, the honorary speaker of the event, Mr Mehdiyev gave detailed information to the participants of the event on the activities of the State Customs Committee and the work carried out by the Committee to increase transparency, to combat the shadow economy and smuggling and to strengthen the human potential against the changing global economic landscape. He especially mentioned the activities of the Committee to significantly reduce the scope of the physical inspections and increase their efficiency as a result of the public-private partnership. Additionally, Mr Mehdiyev spoke about the recent fiscal reforms implemented in Azerbaijan, including e-services provided by the Committee and priority goals set to improve this area.

Talking about the implementation of modern and facilitated procedures and its adaptation into the legislation, he informed the participants of the work by the Committee to improve the “Green Corridor” system and develop the customs services and stressed the importance of applying the principle of voluntary participation when paying the customs duties. Mr Mehdiyev noted that 750 companies had already joined the “Green Corridor” system and they constitute 30% of total exports and 41% of total imports.

Touching upon the utmost importance they attach to the international cooperation and foreign direct investments, Mr Mehdiyev said that new Customs Code had been drafted to ensure a competitive economy, moreover new trends in the global trade was reflected in the Azerbaijani customs reforms. He emphasised that the digitalisation of the services would provide the population with easy and convenient access to these services and increase the opportunities to optimise the current system.

After his speech, Mr Mehdiyev answered questions raised by the AHK Azerbaijan members and expressed his gratitude to the Chamber for the given opportunity to have direct dialogue with the representatives of the private sector. The event was concluded with a networking lunch. Mehr

On July 1, 2021, the German-Azerbaijani Chamber of Commerce (“AHK Azerbaijan”) organised an AHK Impuls event for the member companies with the support of “Ameco” LLC and “Sahhat” clinic. The honorary guest of the event was Mr. Himalay Mamishov, Chairman of the Board of the State Social Protection Fund, who delivered a speech on "A new approach to social protection in Azerbaijan." The event was held in the "Guba" hall of the "Hyatt Regency" Meeting and Conference Center in strict compliance with all requirements of a special quarantine regime and recommendations for safety and health.

The welcoming speech of the Executive Director of the AHK Azerbaijan, Tobias Baumann, was followed by the presentation of Dr Sabina Gafarova, Application Specialist at Ameco LLC. During her speech, Dr Gafarova introduced a new express COVID-19 antibody tests and stressed the importance of making tests accessible to everyone as an effective way to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Then, Mr. Mamishov, the honorary guest of the event, informed the participants about the activities of the State Social Protection Fund and the measures carried out to strengthen the social insurance system in the country. In particular, he spoke about the work done by the Fund to ensure the transparency and increase the efficiency of social protection and pension systems. Moreover, Mr. Mamishov highlighted the recent reforms in the field of social security in Azerbaijan, including large-scale e-services provided and the priorities identified towards developing this area.

Mr. Mamishov particularly emphasised the importance of the e-social portal for both the social insurance system and citizens. He noted that the digitalisation of services has further enhanced the ability to optimise the built-in system to ensure that people can easily and conveniently use these services. In addition, the prompt response to citizens' questions on social media has created a great basis for improving the quality of services provided.

Concluding his speech, Mr Mamishov expressed his gratitude to the German-Azerbaijani Chamber of Commerce for the given opportunity to have the direct dialogue with the representatives of the private sector. Following the Q&A session on the enquiries of the AHK Azerbaijan members, the event was concluded with networking dinner. More

Am 8. April 2021 organisierte die AHK Aserbaidschan den nächsten AHK Impuls für die AHK-Mitgliedsunternehmen. Der Schwerpunkt der Veranstaltung lag auf den Entwicklungstendenzen der Transport- und Logistikbranche in Aserbaidschan und der Ehrengast der Veranstaltung war der Generaldirektor des Hafens von Baku, Dr. Taleh Ziyadov.

Nach der Eröffnung durch den Vorstandsvorsitzenden der AHK Aserbaifschan, Herrn Farid Isayev hielt Dr. Taleh Ziyadov eine Rede zum Thema "Hafen von Baku als aufstrebender Logistik-Hub: Förderung des internationalen Handels".

Dr. Ziyadov informierte die Unternehmen über das Memorandum of Understanding, das zwischen dem Hafen Baku und dem APEC Port Training Center des Hafens Antwerpen unterzeichnet wurde, sowie über das bevorstehende Training, das sich an Spezialisten im Bereich Transport, Handel und Logistik richtet. Außerdem sprach er über die neuen Möglichkeiten in den Kommunikationslinien des Landes, die nach der Wiederherstellung der territorialen Integrität Aserbaidschans entstanden sind, über die Entwicklungsstrategie des Hafens für die nächsten zwei Jahre, über die Vereinbarungen, die mit führenden Logistikknotenpunkten und Transportunternehmen in Asien und Europa getroffen wurden, sowie über Innovationen im Transportsektor der Region.

Im Anschluss an die Veranstaltung fand eine Fragerunde zu den Anfragen der Mitgliedsunternehmen unter der Moderation von Frau Nigar Bayramli, stellvertretende Geschäftsführerin der AHK Aserbaidschan, statt. Mehr

Am 8. Juli 2020 organisierte die Deutsch-Aserbaidschanische Handelskammer (AHK Aserbaidschan) ihre erste Online-Veranstaltung AHK Impuls für ihre Mitgliedsunternehmen. Hauptthema der Veranstaltung waren die mittel- und langfristigen Auswirkungen der COVID-19 Pandemie auf die Tourismusindustrie in Aserbaidschan. Nach der Eröffnungsrede des AHK-Vorstandsvorsitzenden Farid Isajew, hielt Ehrengastredner der Veranstaltung und CEO des Aserbaidschanischen Tourismusverbandes, Florian Sengstschmid eine Grundsatzrede zum Thema "Die Tourismusindustrie Aserbaidschans während der Pandemie".

Während des Treffens informierte Herr Sengstschmid die Teilnehmer über die aktuelle Situation in der Tourismusindustrie in Aserbaidschan hinsichtlich der Coronavirus-Pandemie, erörterte kurz den vierstufigen Sanierungsplan für den Tourismussektor des Landes und die Unterstützungsmechanismen, die den Branchenvertretern zur Verfügung gestellt wurden. Darüber hinaus ging er auf die neuen Initiativen des Fremdenverkehrsamtes, das Programm "SAHMAN" ("Sanitation and Hygiene Methods and Norms") und die Kampagne "Abenteuer ist nah" ("Macəra Yaxındadır") im Inlandstourismus ein.

Herr Sengstschmid betonte die Bedeutung einer Neubewertung und Verbesserung der Standards im gesamten Tourismussektor und erwähnte, dass das "SAHMAN"-Programm alle Interessenvertreter in Aserbaidschan dazu aufruft, im Interesse des Schutzes der öffentlichen Gesundheit und zur Unterstützung der Erholung der Branche bessere Praktiken in ihren Unternehmen einzuführen. Er erwähnte, dass der Zweck der Kampagne "Abenteuer ist nah" darin besteht, den Inlandstourismus auf staatlicher Ebene zu fördern und alle touristischen Angebote für die Bürger des Landes zusammenzuführen, indem die einheimische Bevölkerung ermutigt wird, die touristischen Möglichkeiten des Landes zu nutzen.

Im Anschluss daran gaben Herr Walter Gag, General Manager bei Hyatt Regency Baku, und Herr René Koinzack, General Manager Sales der Deutschen Lufthansa AG, ihre wertvollen Einblicke in die wirtschaftlichen Folgen von COVID-19 im Gastgewerbe bzw. im Transportsektor sowie in die Herausforderungen für die Entwicklung und Erholung der Sektoren nach der Pandemie.

Das Webinar wurde mit der Fragerunde zu den Anfragen der Mitgliedsunternehmen abgeschlossen. Die AHK Aserbaidschan wird weiterhin entgegen aller Widrigkeiten ihre Leistungen erbringen und ihre Mitglieder durch ähnliche Sitzungen und Online-Veranstaltungen mit relevanten Informationen unterstützen. Mehr

On 30 October 2019, The German-Azerbaijani Chamber of Commerce (AHK Azerbaijan) organised its next AHK Impuls event for its member companies at Hyatt Meeting & Conference Centre, sponsored by Uniper Global Commodities SE. The honorary guest speaker of the event, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, Mr Mukhtar Babayev delivered a speech on “Main Priorities of Environmental Policy in Azerbaijan”.

During the meeting, Minister informed the participants about the measures implemented by the government in the field of environmental protection, preservation of ecological balance, and finding the rational solution to existing environmental problems. Providing the information on the current statistics regarding the air emissions in Azerbaijan, Mr Babayev stressed the importance of promotion of use of environmental friendly fuel and modernization of the air quality monitoring system in the country.

Moreover, Minister noted that increasing the use of renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technologies to reduce impacts of climate change, cease of the use of black oil at thermal power plants, expansion of forest areas, annual reduction of volume of associated gases to the atmosphere and other measures have been undertaken to mitigate climate change impact in Azerbaijan. Mr Babayev stated that the solar power plants currently operate in Gobustan and Samukh regions, Baku’s Pirallahi, Surakhani and Sahil settlements.

Furthermore, it was mentioned that taking into consideration national context of the country, future development prospects and national interests, in its Intended Nationally Determined Contribution by 2030 Azerbaijan targets 35% reduction in the level of greenhouse gas emissions compared to 1990/base year as its contribution to the global climate change efforts.

Touching upon the greening measures taken by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, Mr Babayev shared the plans of the institution for the next 5 years, which include greening activities in 7000 hectare areas of Baku and Absheron Peninsula, establishment of agro-gardens along the highways, and the use of alternative sources in irrigation.

Concluding his speech Minister expressed his gratitude to the German-Azerbaijani Chamber of Commerce for the given opportunity to have the direct dialogue with representatives of the private sector.

Following the Q&A session on the enquiries of the AHK Azerbaijan members, the event was concluded with networking dinner. More

Am 16. September 2019 organisierte die Deutsch-Aserbaidschanische Auslandshandelskammer (AHK Aserbaidschan) im Hyatt Meeting & Conference Center die nächste AHK Impuls-Veranstaltung für ihre Mitgliedsunternehmen. Das Thema des aktuellen AHK-Impuls war den Zolldienste und den jüngsten Entwicklungen im Zollbereich Aserbaidschans gewidmet. Der Ehrengast der Veranstaltung, Herr Safar Mehdiyev, Vorsitzender des Staatlichen Zollkomitees der Republik Aserbaidschan, hielt im Rahmen der Veranstaltung eine Rede zum Thema "Innovative Lösungen zur Erleichterung des Zollverfahrens".

Herr Mehdiyev sprach über die wichtigsten Reformen zur Erleichterung des Handels mit dem Zollsystem und verwies auf die Bedeutung der Informationstechnologien für die Risikoanalyse und das Risikomanagement sowie für die Beschleunigung der Import-Export-Aktivitäten.

Darüber hinaus unterstrich Herr Mehdiyev die bereits unternommenen Schritte wie beispielsweise Sammeln von internationalen Erfahrungen um die Zollgesetzgebung zu verbessern. Das aserbaidschanische Zollsystem soll an die europäischen Modellstandards angepasst werden. Er wies darauf hin, dass sich die Ausarbeitung des neuen Zollkodex in der Abschlussphase befinde. In Bezug auf die Einführung des Freigabesystems "Grüner Korridor" stellte der Vorsitzende des Komitees fest, dass dieses Programm dazu beitragen wird Verzögerungen zu beseitigen und eine einfache Durchführung von Import-Export-Vorgängen ermöglicht. Durchschnittlich werden bereits bis zu 25% - 30% der Import-Export-Vorgänge über den „Grünen Korridor“ abgewickelt.

Der Vorsitzende verwies auf die Wichtigkeit von Transparenz und Bekämpfung von Korruption, die durch kontinuierliche Zusammenarbeit mit internationalen Organisationen in diesem Bereich gewährleistet werden soll. Eine der derzeitigen Prioritäten des Komitees ist es auch, den klassischen Kontakt zwischen Zollbeamten und Bürgern zu verringern und die onlinebasierte Kommunikation zu stärken. Hierzu wurden erste Anstrengungen unternommen, die Qualität und Quantität der Elektronischen Dienste zu verbessern und auch statistische Informationen in das Regierungsportal zu integrieren. Es wurden bereits greifbare Ergebnisse geliefert.

Am Ende seiner Rede betonte Herr Mehdiyev die Notwendigkeit einer weiterhin engen Zusammenarbeit zwischen Zollbehörden und Unternehmen und meinte, dass dies die Zollgesetzgebung weiter verbessern und dazu beitragen werde, die Schwierigkeiten der Geschäftsleute zu beseitigen.

Nach der Fragerunde der AHK Mitglieder bezüglich Zollabwicklung, hielt Herr Ilgar Vahabov, Geschäftsführer von "My Broker" Limited Liability, einen Vortrag zum Thema "Ein neuer Blick auf die Zolldienstleistungen in Aserbaidschan". More

Die Deutsch-Aserbaidschanische Auslandshandelskammer (AHK Aserbaidschan) veranstaltete für ihre Mitgliedsunternehmen und Partner ihren nächsten AHK Impuls am 10. Juli 2019 im Hyatt Meeting & Conference Centre, welches von der AccessBank Aserbaidschan gesponsort wurde. Der Ehrengastredner Herr Ibrahim Alishov, amtierender Vorsitzender der Kammer für Finanzmarktaufsicht der Republik Aserbaidschan (FIMSA) hielt eine Rede zum Thema "Entwicklungsperspektiven der Finanzmärkte in Aserbaidschan".

Nachdem Herr Ibrahim Alishov alle Teilnehmer begrüßte, informierte er ausführlich über die Finanzstabilität in Aserbaidschan, die umgesetzten Reformen zur Angleichung an Internationale Standards und hob die erzielten Fortschritte und die aktuelle Lage des Banken-, Versicherungs- und Wertpapiermarktes des Landes hervor.

Herr Ibrahim Alishov sprach auch darüber, welche Bedeutung die internationale Zusammenarbeit zu Institutionen und Finanzaufsichtsbehörden hat und wie wichtig es ist, länderübergreifende Erfahrungen auf den globalen Finanzmärkten zu integrieren.

Die Anfragen der Mitglieder wurden in einer Fragerunde beantwortet. Anschließend hielt Herr Anar Hasanov, Vorsitzender der AccessBank Aserbaidschan einen Vortrag zum Thema "Entwicklungstrends auf den Finanzmärkten Aserbaidschans: Perspektive AccessBank"

Abgerundet wurde die Veranstaltung mit einem abendlichen Buffet mit Networking. Mehr

Am 02. Mai 2019 organisierte die Deutsch-Aserbaidschanische Auslandshandelskammer (AHK Aserbaidschan) für ihre Mitgliedsunternehmen ihren nächsten AHK Impuls, welcher im Hyatt Meeting & Conference Center stattfand und von PwC Aserbaidschan gesponsert wurde. Der Ehrengast dieser Veranstaltung war Herr Naveed Hassan Naqvi, Country Manager der Weltbank für Aserbaidschan. Er hielt eine Rede zum Thema „Wirtschaftliche Perspektiven für Aserbaidschan“.

Herr Naqvi informierte über die jüngsten internationalen Berichte, welche die wirtschaftlichen und geschäftlichen Rahmenbedingungen in der Welt analysieren. Er hob besonders hervor, dass es Aserbaidschan gelungen sei im Bericht „Doing Business 2019“ den 25. Platz zu erreichen. Des Weiteren betonte er auch die Wertschätzung der Weltbank und internationaler Organisationen für diese Leistung. In Bezug auf den 69. Platz den Aserbaidschan im Human Capital Index 2019 erreichte, der die Menschen als Ursprung für Unternehmensgründung und Innovation aufzeigt, wies Herr Naqvi auf die Notwendigkeit der Entwicklung des Humankapitals hin, die für die Stärkung der sozialen Bindungen zwischen Regierung und Bevölkerung entscheidend sei. Insbesondere wurde erwähnt, dass Aserbaidschan über zwei Hauptressourcen verfügt, die es seinem Markt ermöglichen zu wachsen: Öl und Humankapital. Er unterstrich, dass das Land den Schwerpunkt vom Ölsektor auf die Entwicklung des Humankapitals verlagern müsse. Herr Naqvi hebte auch die Bedeutung der Rolle der Regierung bei der Verbesserung des Bildungssystems und des Gesundheitssektors in Aserbaidschan hervor.

Darüber hinaus drückte er seine Anerkennung eines neuen Managements in den staatlichen Organen seit den letzten Präsidentschaftswahlen aus. Er betonte insbesondere die Neueinstellungen die unter anderem im Ministerium für Steuern, im Ministerium für Arbeit und Sozialschutz vorgenommen wurden. Herr Naqvi beendete seine Rede in dem er die Signifikanz von Wissen und Know How für die Verbesserung der ökonomischen Aussichten für das Landes heraus stellte.

Anschließend hielt Herr Otabek Sidikov, Senior Manager der Risk Assurance Abteilung von PwC Aserbaidschan, eine Präsentation zum Thema „Die drei Verteidigungslinien für eine effiziente Unternehmensführung“.

An den Vortrag schloss sich eine Fragerunde der AHK Mitglieder an. Die Veranstaltung wurde mit einem Networking Dinner abgeschlossen. Mehr

Am 7. Februar 2019 organisierte die AHK Aserbaidschan für ihre Mitgliedsunternehmen die erste AHK-Impuls-Veranstaltung dieses Jahres im Hyatt Meeting & Conference Centre.

Der AHK-Impuls widmet sich den laufenden Reformen und den jüngsten Entwicklungen im Migrationsbereich Aserbaidschans. Ehrengast der Veranstaltung war Herr Vusal Huseynov, Leiter des Staatlichen Migrationsdienstes der Republik Aserbaidschan. Herr Huseynov hielt auf der Veranstaltung seine Rede zum Thema "Implementierung von Migrationsreformen für Aserbaidschan". Die Teilnehmer der Veranstaltung wurden über die Prioritäten und geplanten Aktivitäten des Migrationsdienstes im Jahr 2019, über die derzeitigen Reformen sowie über die Erleichterung der Migrationsherausforderungen ausländischer Bürger informiert.

Anschließend informierte Herr Ilgar Mehti, der Gesellschafter und Direktor der Firma Ekvita LLC die Gäste über das Thema „10 Jahre Anwendung der Migrationsgesetze in Aserbaidschan“.

Wir danken dem Ekvita LLC für die Unterstützung der Veranstaltung! <link veranstaltungen veranstaltungsdetails ahk-impuls-07022019 _blank rte_button>Mehr

On 5 December 2018, AHK Azerbaijan organised the next AHK-Impuls event for its member companies at Hyatt Meeting and Conference Centre. The current event was dedicated to the ongoing reforms in the labour market in Azerbaijan and was attended by the honorary guest speaker Mr Sahil Babayev, Minister of Labour and Social Protection of Population of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

The event was opened with a welcoming speech of Mr Tobias Baumann, Executive Director of AHK Azerbaijan and was followed by the presentation of Mr Rizvan Gubiyev, Tax Director of KPMG Azerbaijan Limited on “International practices in tackling informal employment through tax policy”. Afterwards, Mr Sahil Babayev, Minister of Labour and Social Protection of Population delivered a speech on “Implementing labour market reforms for Azerbaijan”.

Emphasising the human factor as the main direction of the state policy, Mr Babayev mentioned that this year ongoing reforms in the labour market covered four main directions: Automation of pension system; establishing "DOST" centres; introduction of e-social internet portal and improving the quality of employment services. The minister noted that the expansion of e-services in the field of employment and provision of 124 services by the Ministry through a single-window in a simplified and non-restrictive way will play a crucial role in ensuring transparency and effectiveness of the system.

Furthermore, it was noted that the implementation of the projects related to the Agency for Sustainable and Operative Social Security (DOST), established under the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population in accordance with the Decree of the President Mr Ilham Aliyev dated 9 August 2018, is being completed and the first “DOST” centre will be put into operation in the first months of 2019.

The minister stated that the "e-social" internet portal, which incorporates data of citizens on the state social services (labour contract, personal account, pension capital, types of social security, disability, etc.), is already operating and the work conducted to improve the portal will be continued during the next year.

Pointing out the reduction of the tax burden of workers in the non-oil sector of Azerbaijan and amendments to the legislation in the employment field as positive cases, Minister said that the cooperation with the Ministry of Taxes and other relevant government agencies will be continued to prevent non-formal employment and to ensure coordinated work in this sphere.

After concluding his the speech, Minister responded to the questions of AHK Azerbaijan members on the mentioned issues and called business representatives for supporting the ongoing reforms and conducted work with their comments and suggestions. The event was concluded with networking lunch. <link veranstaltungen veranstaltungsdetails ahk-impuls-05122018 _blank rte_button>Mehr

On 31 October 2018, AHK Azerbaijan organised the next AHK-Impuls event for its member companies at Hyatt Meeting & Conference Centre. The topic of the current AHK-Impuls was dedicated to the ongoing reforms and recent developments in the customs sphere of Azerbaijan. The honorary guest speaker of the event, Mr. Safar Mehdiyev, Chief of State Customs Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan, delivered a speech on "Customs reforms for trade facilitation" in the event.

Providing information about major reforms in the customs system, Mr. Mehdiyev mentioned the increase in imports as a result of ensuring transparency and anti-corruption measures. Mr. Mehdiyev also talked about the measures taken to study international experience, introduction of EU customs systems model in Azerbaijan within the framework of cooperation with the European Union and noted that innovations in world trade are taken into account in the customs reforms in Azerbaijan.

In particular, it was noted that Azerbaijan’s accession to the Common Transit Convention will play a special role in simplifying customs procedures and reducing paperwork. The Chief noted that a working group was established in this regard and the initial phase of the project was successfully implemented. Commenting on the introduction of modern and simple procedures, the SCC chairman informed the participants about the work implemented for improving the green corridor system and increasing the level of customs services, and stressed the significance of introducing the principle of voluntary payment of customs duties.

Touching upon the organisational structural and personnel reforms, Mr. Mehdiyev stated that the work is underway in changing the management and implementing structural reforms in the Committee. It was noted that the new Customs Code and normative documents were adopted taking into consideration the comments and recommendations of international experts, and the European standards were applied in the structure of customs system. Furthermore, it was pointed out that minimising physical contact between customs officers and citizens is one of the priorities of the Committee, and the work is being conducted to improve the quality and quantity of e-services in this sphere as well as the integration of statistical information into the government portal.

Mr. Mehdiyev concluded his speech by underscoring the importance of such meetings in contributing to successful continuation of the measures taken in the customs sphere, and stated that the remarks and suggestions made by business representatives at the event will be considered while drafting future reforms.

Following the Q&A session on the enquiries of the AHK Azerbaijan members about customs, Mr. Yunis Salayev, Managing Partner of BDO Azerbaijan LLC and Mr. Sabit Abdullayev, Director of the Legal Services department of BDO Azerbaijan LLC delivered a presentation on supporting the implementation of the roadmap for beneficial ownership disclosure in the extractive industries in Azerbaijan. More

On 12 July 2018, AHK Azerbaijan organised the next AHK-Impuls event for its member companies at Hyatt Meeting & Conference Centre. The main focus of the event was the reform currently being planned in tax legislation and administration in Azerbaijan. Mr. Mikayil Jabbarov, Minister of Taxes of the Republic of Azerbaijan attended the event as the honorary guest and delivered a speech on "New Approaches to Business".

In his welcoming speech at the event, Mr. Tobias Baumann, Executive Director of AHK Azerbaijan stated that economic cooperation between Azerbaijan and Germany had expanded and various documents signed between the countries had created favourable conditions for foreign investors to actively participate in various sectors of the economy. It was noted that Germany ranks the 5th place among Azerbaijan’s foreign trade partners according to the volume of trade turnover. He emphasised the significance of AHK Azerbaijan's activity in strengthening the economic relations. Referring to the recent reforms implemented in the tax system of the country, Mr. Baumann stated that these reforms were related to improvement of business and investment climate, reduction of tax burden and tax optimisation, establishment of relations between tax authorities and entrepreneurs on a new level and improvement of tax administration.

Minister of Taxes Mikayil Jabbarov mentioned that important tasks had been set for the Ministry in raising attractiveness of the tax environment, improving tax administration, optimising the tax burden, ensuring transparency in the tax authorities, and currently tax administration was being improved and structural reforms are being implemented in the tax system. In addition, the work is underway to improve the tax legislation.

Mr. Jabbarov noted that one of the most important institutional innovations in structural reforms was the creation of a new institution for appeals and improving tax audits. Minister stated that improving the quality of services provided to taxpayers and establishment of relations with taxpayers on a new level were some of the main priorities of the ongoing reforms. Touching upon the issue of tax burden, the Minister of Taxes noted that diminishing fiscal rates and reducing tax burden through optimisation of some tax rates was being considered. Mr. Jabbarov underlined that the new tax system would enable the establishment of a predictable and transparent tax environment for entrepreneurs.

Minister of Taxes, Mikayil Jabbarov also underscored that the Ministry of Taxes attaches great importance to open dialogue and exchange of views with business representatives as well as the German-Azerbaijani Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber contributes to the development of relations between the two countries, and the Ministry of Taxes expects that these relations, which have become a good platform for the organisation, will yield effective results in improving the business climate. <link veranstaltungen veranstaltungsdetails ahk-impuls-12072018 _blank rte_button>More

On 13 March 2018, the German-Azerbaijani Chamber of Commerce (AHK Azerbaijan) organised its traditional event AHK-Impuls for its members at Hyatt Meeting & Conference Centre.

The first AHK-Impuls of this year was dedicated to the topic of energy. Minister of Energy of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Parviz Shahbazov attended the event as an honorary guest and made a presentation about “The future of energy in Azerbaijan”.

Mr. Shahbazov drew attention to the energy strategy implemented by Azerbaijan since 1994, and its achievements. He emphasised that the current priority of Azerbaijan is the production of petrochemicals and the expansion of their export potential.

Further commenting on Azerbaijan’s policy in the power sector, Mr. Shahbazov mentioned modernisation of the power sector, ensuring efficiency and environmental requirements, the development of alternative and renewable energy sources, and making this field attractive to domestic and foreign investments as the tasks to be fulfilled in the power sector.

The minister concluded his speech by making remarks on current reforms implemented in the energy sector. He pointed out that the implementation of the measures identified in the Strategic Road Map on Utilities Development are in progress and efforts are being made to liberalise the energy market, create a competitive environment for electricity generation and consumption.

Minister’s speech was followed by the presentation of Dr. Michael Hilmer, Senior Vice-President of Gas Supply Division South / Caspian Region, Uniper Global Commodities SE on the projects of the company in Azerbaijan. Mr. Hilmer informed the participants about the past and future projects of the company and a successful joint venture with SOCAR on energy efficiency since 2016. He made his final remarks on the partnerships of the company and stressed that it will strengthen ties and identify new joint business opportunities. <link veranstaltungen veranstaltungsdetails ahk-impuls-13032018 _blank rte_button>Mehr

Der nächste AHK Impuls der AHK Aserbaidschan fand am 16. Oktober 2017 von 5 bis 8 Uhr im Hyatt Meeting & Conference Centre, Guba Ballroom statt.

Murat Karakash, Managing Partner von KPMG Aserbaidschan und Dr. Malik Kerimov, Direktor der Deutsch-Aserbaidschanischen Klinik “Sahhat” sprachen über ihre Dienstleistungen im Zusammenhang mit ihrer lokalen und internationalen Expertise.

Herr Kamran Agasi, Direktor des Innovationszentrums der staatlichen Agentur für öffentliche Dienstleistungen und soziale Innovationen unter dem Präsidenten der Republik Aserbaidschan hielt einen Vortrag über die "Neue Generation öffentlicher Dienstleistungen", welche das Kernthema der Veranstaltung bildete. Er betonte, dass Aserbaidschan sich in einer Transformationsphase befinde, in der eine Modernisierung der öffentlichen Dienstleistungen stattfände. Er nannte ASAN als Beispiel für diese modernisierten Dienstleistungen, wobei das Hauptaugenmerk auf dem Prinzip der Zugänglichkeit, Verantwortlichkeit, Effizienz, Transparenz und Innovation liege. Herr Agasi erläuterte die Entwicklung neuer Konzepte wie ASAN Life, Abad usw., die die Regionen aufwerten sollen. Wichtig sei außerdem, dass sie immer Unterstützung von Leuten spürten, die sich von der Weiterentwicklung der Projekte begeistert zeigten. Mehr

Die AHK Aserbaidschan veranstaltete das vierte AHK-Impuls-Treffen am 12. September 2017 im Hyatt Meeting- und Konferenzzentrum, Guba Ballroom von 17:00 bis 20:00 Uhr.

Der Schwerpunkt dieses AHK-Impulses lag auf Eigentumsfragen in Aserbaidschan. Herr Azer Bashirov, Leiter des Staatskomitees für Eigentumsfragen, hielt eine Rede über die Verwaltung und Privatisierung der Staatsbetriebe, die elektronische Grundbucheintragung und die Verwaltung von Grundbesitz in Aserbaidschan. Herr Bashirov wies auch auf die besondere Bedeutung der deutsch-aserbaidschanischen Zusammenarbeit bei Eigentumsfragen hin und informierte über gemeinsame Projekte. Herr Yalchin Jamalov, Vertreter des Staatsausschusses für Eigentumsfragen, hielt einen Vortrag über Privatisierungs- und Investitionsmöglichkeiten in Aserbaidschan.

Darüber hinaus stellten Herr Koray Uygur, Industry Sales Manager Aserbaidschan der BASF Caspian LLC und Herr Nuran Karimov, Managing Partner der Deloitte & Touche LLC, ihre jeweiligen Unternehmen in Vorträgen kurz vor. Mehr

Am 01. Juni 2017 wurde der AHK-Impuls zum Thema neuste Änderungen im Zollverfahren und der diesbezüglichen Gesetze organisiert.

Anwesend war Herr Aydin Aliyev, Vorsitzender des Staatlichen Zollkomitees der Republik Aserbaidschan und Herr Shahin Bagirov, stellvertretender Vorsitzender des Staatlichen Zollkomitees der Republik Aserbaidschan, der zu dieser Thematik einen Kurzvortrag hielt.

Ihre Unternehmen präsentierten diesmal Herr Ilgar Mehti, Geschäftsführender Partner der Firma Ekvita LLC und Herr Ruslan Agayev, Leiter der Repräsentanz der Grohe AG im Kaukasus. Mehr

Am Donnerstag, den 06. April 2017, fand der zweite AHK-Impuls der AHK Aserbaidschan statt.

Thematisiert wurde auf dieser Veranstaltung der derzeitige Stand der Wirtschaftsreformen in Aserbaidschan. Herr Dr. Vusal Gasimli, Direktor des Zentrums für die Analyse der Wirtschaftsreformen und Kommunikation hielt zu diesem Thema einen Impulsvortrag.

Zur Vorstellung ihrer Unternehmen hat die AHK Aserbaidschan Herrn Vugar Mammadov, geschäftsführender Partner der Firma Capital Legal Services LLC und Herrn Dr. Mais Sailov, Geschäftsführer der Firma Labservis Ltd eingeladen. Mehr

Am 2. März 2017 wurde im Hyatt Meeting & Conference Centre Baku Room der erste AHK-Impuls veranstaltet.

Im Mittelpunkt dieser Veranstaltung stand die aktuelle Lage des Finanz- und Bankensektors in Aserbaidschan. Hierzu hielt Herr Michael Hoffmann, CEO der AccessBank OJSC einen Kurzvortrag.

Herr Samir Guliyev, Geschäftsführer der Firma Knauf Marketing Baku GmbH und Herr Rufat Hajialibayov, Geschäftsführer der Firma SAP Aserbaidschan stellten Ihre Unternehmen vor. Mehr