Azerbaijan Promotes Tourism as Key Economic Diversification Driver

Chairman of the State Tourism Agency of Azerbaijan Fuad Naghiyev identified tourism as a primary driver for economic diversification during the 2nd Azerbaijan International Investment Forum in Baku. Naghiyev reported that tourism-related activities generated nearly 7 billion manat ($4.11 billion) in added value in 2025, with the sector accounting for approximately 5.4% of the national economy and producing $2 billion in foreign currency revenues.

Naghiyev emphasized the development of tourism and recreation zones to foster sustainable investment and highlighted growth opportunities in luxury, cultural, and experiential tourism. He noted that these zones are designed to combine tourism services and spatial development to create conditions for sustainable growth.

The two-day forum was organized by the Ministry of Economy and the Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Agency in partnership with The European House–Ambrosetti. The event covers strategic topics including the Middle Corridor, green transition, and digital transformation.