AZE.US
Fish prices in Azerbaijan have risen sharply in recent weeks, with some popular species becoming significantly more expensive as supplies from Iran decline.
Traders at fish markets in Baku say customer activity has slowed noticeably as prices climb. While fish used to be purchased by the kilogram, many buyers now opt for smaller quantities or cheaper varieties.
According to vendors, several commonly consumed species – including kutum, trout and belamur – have seen substantial price increases.
Belamur, which previously sold for around 6-7 AZN per kilogram, now costs about 10 AZN, representing an increase of roughly 40-50 percent, traders say.
The sharpest rise has been recorded in trout prices. Sellers say trout that previously sold for 11-12 AZN per kilogram is now priced between 19 and 21 AZN in some markets.
Market participants attribute the surge primarily to reduced fish imports from Iran, which has traditionally been a major supplier to Azerbaijan’s seafood markets.
According to experts, Azerbaijan relies heavily on imports for some species. For example, around 70 percent of kutum consumed in the country is imported from Iran, with annual volumes estimated at 500 to 1,500 tons.
Regional tensions and disruptions affecting cross-border trade have reduced deliveries, quickly tightening supply on local markets.
Analysts warn that if geopolitical tensions persist and trade flows remain constrained, fish prices in Azerbaijan could continue rising through the end of the year.