Azerbaijan's non-oil sector drives investment appeal and economic growth
Azerbaijan’s non-oil sector has emerged as the leading driver of the country’s investment attractiveness and economic expansion, Economy Minister Mikayil Jabbarov said during a press conference following the 2026 Annual Meetings of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group in Baku, Qazinform News Agency cites Trend.
Jabbarov noted that the international gathering provided Azerbaijan with an opportunity to showcase its economic potential to global investors, financial institutions and business leaders. As part of the event, officials presented the country's investment priorities and opportunities during the “Azerbaijan Investment Outlook” session.
The minister said the presentation highlighted strategic goals outlined in Azerbaijan’s national development agenda.
According to Jabbarov, the non-oil sector has been the primary engine of economic growth over the past five to six years, reflecting the government's continued efforts to diversify the economy.
He identified several sectors with strong investment potential, including non-oil manufacturing, mining and critical minerals, agriculture, agro-processing, transport and logistics.
Jabbarov also underscored Azerbaijan’s strategic location at the crossroads of major regional trade routes, emphasizing ongoing investments in transport infrastructure aimed at strengthening the country's position as a regional logistics and connectivity hub.
Tourism was highlighted as another rapidly growing area of interest for investors. The minister said the IsDB meetings served as an important platform to promote Azerbaijan’s tourism industry to an international audience.
Jabbarov pointed to several factors underpinning Azerbaijan's investment appeal, including political and macroeconomic stability, a strategic regional position, low public debt levels, substantial foreign exchange reserves and favorable assessments from international rating agencies.
“All this information was shared with international investors, financial institutions and participants,” Jabbarov said, adding that the private sector is increasingly contributing to the development of new investment opportunities and economic growth.
Azerbaijan continues to prioritize attracting foreign investment into non-oil industries as part of its broader strategy to diversify the economy and ensure long-term sustainable development.
Earlier, Qazinform reported Azerbaijan, Georgia and Türkiye launch the upgraded Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway.
