AZE.US
Despite large volumes of apples still stored in warehouses across Azerbaijan, retail prices for the fruit remain relatively high in Baku markets.
Local farmers say that by March only about 30% of the apple harvest has been sold, leaving large quantities of fruit stored in refrigerated warehouses, particularly in the country’s key apple-growing regions such as Guba.
Producers attribute the situation primarily to difficulties with exports. Farmers say that demand in the Russian market, traditionally the main destination for Azerbaijani apples, has weakened, leaving exporters with excess supply.
At the same time, apples in retail markets are not cheap. Vendors say many varieties currently sell for around 2.50 manats per kilogram, while some apples reach 3.50 manats per kilogram.
In Baku markets, consumers report even higher prices. Depending on the variety and location, apples can cost 5-7 manats per kilogram, which many buyers consider expensive.
Experts say one of the key reasons for the price difference is the cost of storage. Apples can remain in refrigerated warehouses for 6-7 months, and maintaining cold storage significantly increases the final price of the fruit. In some cases, storage costs can reach about 40-50 manats over the storage period.
Farmers who do not store apples in refrigerated facilities often bring their produce directly to market, which allows them to sell at relatively lower prices.
According to specialists, Azerbaijan produces approximately 300,000-330,000 tons of apples annually. The fruit is exported to several markets, including Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates, as well as other countries of the former Soviet Union.
Statistics show that in January 2026 alone, Azerbaijan exported more than 10,000 tons of apples, with an average export price of about 1.28 manats per kilogram.