Dutch firms eye expansion opportunities in Azerbaijan's agriculture, energy sectors Photo

Dutch companies are looking to forge new business partnerships in Azerbaijan, with a particular focus on agriculture, energy, and sustainable technology.

The interest was prominently displayed during the 18th Azerbaijan International Agricultural Exhibition, Caspian Agro, and the 30th anniversary of InterFood Azerbaijan, held in Baku, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

NLIGHT, a Dutch firm specialising in greenhouse lighting, is among those seeking to establish a foothold in the Azerbaijani market. “Our company manufactures lighting solutions for supplementary plant illumination in greenhouses,” said Alexei Kurbanaev, CEO of NLIGHT, speaking on the sidelines of Caspian Agro. 

“This is our first visit to Azerbaijan, and we are eager to build new business connections and identify potential clients. We've already met key industry representatives and hope to return for next year’s exhibition.”

According to Kurbanaev, supplementary lighting is particularly useful in the cultivation of tomatoes and cucumbers, enabling year-round production and enhancing export potential. Such technologies are essential for modern greenhouse operations seeking to extend growing seasons.

Photon Dancing, another Dutch company, is aiming to enter the Azerbaijani market with its LED lamp solutions. “We manufacture LED lamps and are working in collaboration with Grow Group,” said CEO of Photon Dancing Wilco Verkuil.

“This is our first time in Azerbaijan, and we are actively looking for clients. Whether it’s local firms or international corporations operating here, we are open to new partnerships.”

Meanwhile, Austrian firm Bauer, which specialises in irrigation equipment and manure application technologies, is also considering cooperation with Azerbaijani counterparts. Company representative Bojan Seles stressed the importance of efficient irrigation amid changing climatic conditions. “It’s becoming increasingly difficult to secure high yields. Our irrigation systems can help improve productivity,” he said, noting this is their debut at the Baku exhibition.

The exhibitions have drawn significant international attention this year, with 450 companies from 31 countries participating. National pavilions from countries such as Germany, Belarus, South Korea, Georgia, Italy, the Netherlands, Sri Lanka, and — for the first time — Egypt, are showcasing a wide array of agricultural and food industry innovations at the Baku Expo Centre.

In turn, Dutch Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Pauline Eizema, highlighted the growing bilateral potential. “There are currently about 40 Dutch companies active in Azerbaijan, mainly in agriculture, but also in water management, logistics, and maritime sectors,” she told Report. “One Dutch firm was involved in constructing the Alat Port and continues to operate in logistics.”

She added that no formal agreements have yet been signed during the exhibitions, but talks with prospective Azerbaijani partners are ongoing. “Interest has increased notably since COP29. Last year, a delegation of Dutch companies specialising in water management visited Azerbaijan. There are also substantial opportunities in renewable energy, particularly offshore wind,” Eizema said.

With increasing interest from Dutch businesses and a favourable environment for international collaboration, Azerbaijan is positioning itself as a promising partner in sustainable agriculture and green energy development.

By Aghakazim Guliyev