AZE.US
Restaurant and cafe prices in Azerbaijan could increase if new rules requiring businesses to display calorie information are introduced.
A similar “transparent menu” system has already been launched in Turkey, where food establishments are expected to provide customers with more detailed information about meals and calorie content.
Supporters say the measure could help consumers make more informed choices. However, calculating the calories in each dish, carrying out laboratory tests and introducing digital QR-code menus could create additional costs for restaurants.
Economist Natig Jafarli said Azerbaijan does not need such regulations.
“This system is unlikely to remain effective even in Turkey and may eventually be abolished. It is not directly related to protecting consumer rights. Instead, it creates extra costs for businesses, especially restaurants and cafes,” Jafarli said.
He noted that food prices in Turkey are already high amid persistent inflation, while compliance with the new rules would place further financial pressure on the hospitality sector.
According to Jafarli, additional government requirements usually raise operating costs, which are then reflected in menu prices.
“The more the state interferes in business activity through regulations, the more problems arise. When costs increase, prices also rise. The state should act mainly as a fair regulator,” he said.
If Azerbaijan adopts a similar system, restaurants may increase prices to cover the cost of laboratory analysis, menu updates and new digital infrastructure.
AZE.US