Azerbaijani government officials review operational enhancements at Port of Baku

A meeting involving representatives of the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport, the State Customs Committee, the State Border Service of Azerbaijan, and Azerbaijan Railways (ADY) was held at the Port of Baku to review ongoing operational improvements and coordination efforts among the relevant authorities, Report informs, referring to the ADY.

During the meeting, participants received a comprehensive briefing on the Port's cooperation with customs and border control agencies. Discussions focused on measures implemented to optimize operations, results achieved to date, and planned initiatives aimed at further improving efficiency. Presentations were delivered by ADY and the State Customs Committee, followed by an exchange of views on prospects for strengthening existing cooperation.

Participants were also informed about the Port of Baku's operational performance. In January–May 2026, the port handled 3.237 million tonnes of cargo. In May alone, cargo throughput increased by 10.6 percent year-on-year, reaching 812,000 tonnes. During the first five months of the year, the port processed 50,050 TEU containers, representing an 8.4 percent increase compared to the same period in 2025.

The meeting highlighted recent modernization measures implemented at the Port. As part of these efforts, Berth No. 7 was brought into active operation for the first time in the port's history last month, while a new-generation crane with a lifting capacity of 125 tonnes was commissioned.

The parties emphasized the importance of continuing joint efforts to further improve logistics and transport processes, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen interagency cooperation.

They underlined that close coordination with the State Customs Committee, the State Border Service, and other relevant institutions continues to support ongoing operational improvements. As a result of these collaborative efforts, significant progress has been achieved in streamlining cargo and vehicle clearance procedures, optimizing inspection processes, and reducing service times.

Participants also discussed the ongoing implementation of digital solutions and artificial intelligence-based tools aimed at automating cargo-handling operations and further improving management efficiency across the port's operations.

Following the meeting, participants toured the port facilities and reviewed key infrastructure projects. They also visited the One-Stop Service Center, established last year through cooperation between the Port of Baku, the State Border Service, the State Customs Committee, and the State Migration Service. During the visit, officials met with the center's staff and provided additional instructions aimed at ensuring a more seamless and efficient documentation process for port users.