Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan's Ganja-Gazakh region is the center of the country’s potato production, supported by its rich soil and suitable climate. Key districts like Tovuz and Shamkir host research hubs such as the Saritala experimental station, where national potato varieties are cultivated and tested.

Other regions, including Jalilabad, Agstafa, Gazakh, and Gabala, have expanded potato farming by introducing foreign varieties to boost yields and improve disease resistance. Among the most widely grown high-yielding varieties are Telman, Sevinj, and Emiri-600, especially in Tovuz.

Recently introduced varieties like Chenlibel, Ugur, Turan, and Vagif are known for their strong resistance to pests and diseases, making them ideal for arid and highland regions. Murovdag, a newer variety, is valued for its large tubers and adaptability to both dry and irrigated conditions.

According to FAO data, Azerbaijan’s potato production reached approximately 1.01 million tonnes in 2023, reflecting the country’s growing focus on agricultural innovation and productivity.

Potato cultivation in Azerbaijan has a rich and evolving history that dates back to the late 18th century, during the rule of the Qajar dynasty, which controlled regions including modern-day Iran, Azerbaijan, and Central Asia. The introduction of potatoes to Azerbaijan occurred when the Russian army brought the crop during its military campaigns in the region. Initially limited to small-scale farming, potato cultivation expanded significantly in the early 20th century, turning Azerbaijan into a key supplier of potatoes to the Russian Empire, particularly cities like St. Petersburg and Moscow.

The Soviet era, beginning in the 1920s, marked a major transformation in Azerbaijan’s agricultural landscape, as the government heavily promoted potato farming by establishing large state-owned farms and introducing modern machinery and techniques. This period saw potatoes become one of the most important crops in the region, with substantial exports across the Soviet Union.

Following Azerbaijan’s independence in 1991, the sector faced challenges due to the withdrawal of state support, economic restructuring, and difficulties in transitioning to a market-driven system. Despite these setbacks, potatoes remain a staple in Azerbaijani agriculture and cuisine, though issues like land degradation, water scarcity, and outdated farming practices continue to hinder the industry's full potential.