Why 2026 Could Become a Turning Point for the South Caucasus

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Aze.US The geopolitical balance in the South Caucasus is entering a phase that analysts increasingly describe as transitional rather than merely tense. After several years marked by conflict, fragile ceasefires, and shifting alliances, regional dynamics are beginning to evolve toward something more structural: a gradual redefinition of influence, connectivity, and long-term security architecture. For Azerbaijan, … Read more

Language, Identity, and Power in the Post-Soviet Space

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Aze.US Why the Debate in Azerbaijan Is Bigger Than It Seems A sharp public statement by Azerbaijani journalist Azer Hasrat has reignited a familiar but unresolved debate across the post-Soviet world:can national identity fully coexist with the continued dominance of the Russian language? In a televised appearance, Hasrat argued that individuals who consistently prioritize Russian … Read more

Azerbaijan Assesses Risk of Rising Chicken Prices

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Aze.US Concerns over potential increases in chicken prices in Azerbaijan have emerged after Turkey raised poultry prices by about 15% ahead of Ramadan and announced a temporary halt to poultry exports. However, local experts say the Azerbaijani market is unlikely to face significant price pressure. Economist Khalid Karimli notes that 75–80% of domestic demand for … Read more

Israel-Iran Tensions and Their Regional Impact

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Aze.US Rising tensions between Israel and Iran have once again pushed the Middle East toward a fragile strategic threshold. What began as a long-standing confrontation over nuclear ambitions and regional influence is now evolving into a broader geopolitical stress test affecting security, energy markets, and diplomatic alignments across several regions. Recent rhetoric and military signaling … Read more

Taxi Fares May Rise by Up to 10% as Price Hike Debate Intensifies

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Aze,US Taxi drivers have received notifications about a potential fare increase of up to 10% amid rising fuel costs. While officials say the change does not apply to Baku, confusion remains among drivers and passengers. Notifications sent to drivers working with the Bolt platform have triggered widespread discussion on social media. The message stated that, … Read more

Food Prices Rise by Up to 20%: What’s Happening in Markets Across Baku

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Aze,US Food costs in Azerbaijan continue to climb, with residents reporting noticeable price increases for basic goods, weaker purchasing power, and sharp jumps in certain items since the start of the year. The food price index has increased by 4.3% year-on-year, according to a report by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. The global trend … Read more

Tax Service Warns Businesses of Heavy Fines Over AML Violations

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Aze.US Azerbaijan’s State Tax Service has reminded taxpayers of their legal obligations in combating money laundering and terrorist financing, warning that violations may result in significant administrative fines. The State Tax Service under the Ministry of Economy continues awareness efforts aimed at improving taxpayers’ understanding of legal requirements related to anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorist … Read more

Valentine’s Day Dinner in Baku Reaches Up to 400 Manats per Person

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Aze.US Restaurants across the capital are nearly fully booked ahead of February 14, with special menus, deposits, and entertainment programs pushing prices far above regular levels. With Valentine’s Day just days away, finding a free table in many Baku restaurants has already become difficult. According to venue administrators, most reservations are booked in advance, and … Read more

“Milk” Selling for 10 Manats per Liter Appears in Stores

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Aze.US Plant-based milk alternatives are now two to three times more expensive than traditional dairy in Azerbaijan, with demand remaining limited due to high prices and import dependence. Plant-based milk alternatives priced at up to 10 manats (about $5.90) per liter are increasingly visible in major supermarkets across Azerbaijan.Coconut, almond, soy, and banana-based drinks cost … Read more

Why Apartment Prices in Baku Are Rising Two- to Threefold, Economist Explains

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Aze.US The sharp increase in housing prices in Baku is driven not only by construction costs but also by taxes, land prices, credit rates, and falling real incomes. The rapid rise in apartment prices in Azerbaijan has become a major topic of public discussion.Most construction companies in Baku are currently implementing so-called “pilot projects,” demolishing … Read more