Azerbaijan-Russia trade could increase by year-end, ambassador says

Trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Russia could exceed last year's level by the end of 2026, Azerbaijan's ambassador to Russia, Rahman Mustafayev, said at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum.

According to Russian media, cited by Report, speaking on the sidelines of the forum, Mustafayev noted that bilateral trade reached approximately $4.9-5 billion in 2025, reflecting positive growth dynamics.

"By the end of 2025, our trade turnover increased to around $4.9-5 billion. This is a positive trend. However, during the first five months of this year, trade turnover declined by about 30%," the ambassador said.

According to Mustafayev, the decrease may be linked to seasonal fluctuations and requires further analysis.

The diplomat added that he discussed the issue with Russian Deputy Minister of Economic Development Vladimir Ilyichev during meetings at the forum.

"I am confident that in the coming months, by the end of the year, we will catch up with the 2025 figures and may even surpass them," Mustafayev stated.