Last updated: 24 Sep 2013
Tariffs and regulations
Tariffs and duty rates are constantly revised and are subject to change without notice.
Austrade strongly recommends you reconfirm these prior to selling to Azerbaijan.
Tariffs and non-tariff barriers
Azerbaijan currently does not apply any import quotas. However, the export of scrap metals has been prohibited since 2001 to ensure availability for domestic consumption. In addition, the Cabinet of Ministers’ special decision is required for the import and export of arms, nuclear materials, certain narcotics and psychotropic substances, chemical toxins, and certain scientific and technical information and technologies.
Azerbaijani licensing procedures are not in line with the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and the Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures. A Presidential Decree issued in 2002 significantly reduced a wide range of licensing requirements and introduced transparency in the licensing procedure. Many licensing requirements remain in place, however in the context of the ongoing World Trade Organization (WTO) accession negotiations new procedural rules for the issue of licenses must be introduced and existing laws appropriately amended.
Government licensing is required for the import of tobacco, ethyl spirits and alcohol.
Import contracts concluded on chemicals, medicines and medical appliances must be registered with the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Agriculture. Export contracts must be registered if they relate to: wild animals and plants, medicine ingredients made from predatory animals and wild plants, information on energy, natural resources fields, and areas located within onshore and offshore; inventions, know-how, and results of scientific research; works of art and antiques; ozone depleting materials and goods.
(Source: Asian Development Bank)
Top Business Risks
OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises
Multinational Enterprises should be aware of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises that provide voluntary principles and standards for responsible business behaviour in a variety of areas, consistent with applicable domestic laws. These Guidelines are endorsed and promoted by the Australian Government. For more information, go to the AusNCP website.
Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative
The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) is a voluntary mechanism which promotes and supports improved governance in resource-rich countries through the full publication and verification of company payments and government revenues from oil, gas, and mining.
The EITI is supported by governments, industry, and non-government organisations around the world. The Australian Government supports the EITI and encourages Australian companies operating internationally to comply with its recommendations.