AZE.US
Meat prices in Azerbaijan are coming under new pressure as imported supplies become more expensive and local livestock costs continue to rise.
According to the State Customs Committee, Azerbaijan imported 15,531 tons of meat in the first four months of 2026, with a total value of $37.3 million. Compared with the same period last year, import volumes fell by 6.8%, while spending rose by 9.7%.
That means the country brought in less meat but paid more for it. Market participants say the increase has already added up to about 1 manat, or roughly 59 cents, to the cost of one kilogram of imported meat.
Sellers say imported boneless beef from Ukraine and Brazil is currently available on the market, while lamb is also being brought in from Mongolia. Boneless beef is being sold for about 12 to 17 manats per kilogram, depending on the cut, fat content and quality. Imported lamb is priced at around 13.5 manats per kilogram whole, and from about 14 manats when cut.
Retailers warn that the latest increase in import costs could soon add another 50 gapiks to 1 manat per kilogram to market prices.
Economists link the rise to several factors, including higher global food prices, logistics costs, currency effects and increased purchase prices in countries supplying meat to Azerbaijan.
The price pressure is also visible in offal. Beef liver, once sold for 6 to 7 manats per kilogram, now reaches 15 manats in some shops. A product long seen as a cheaper alternative to meat has nearly caught up with beef prices.
Sellers say demand for liver remains strong, with some shops selling out by midday. Beef liver is now generally offered at around 14 to 15 manats per kilogram, while lamb liver can reach 20 manats.
Market participants say the rise reflects not only meat prices but also higher feed and livestock costs in the regions. Unless dependence on imports is reduced and local animal husbandry develops more strongly, both imported and domestic meat may face further price increases in the coming months.
AZE.US