Azerbaijan is looking to increase hazelnut exports to Bulgaria and expand shipments to other European Union markets through the country.

The issue was discussed during an online meeting between representatives of Azerbaijan’s and Bulgaria’s food safety agencies, according to Azerbaijan's Food Safety Agency.

The talks focused on bilateral cooperation and ways to increase Azerbaijani hazelnut exports to Bulgaria, as well as their onward distribution to other EU countries.

The sides also highlighted the importance of streamlining export procedures, ensuring compliance with food safety requirements and improving monitoring and control mechanisms.

Particular attention was given to Bulgaria’s Kapitan Andreevo border crossing, which was described as a strategic gateway for Azerbaijani hazelnuts entering EU markets.

The participants stressed the importance of ensuring fast and efficient border procedures while maintaining full compliance with food safety standards.

Improving procedures at the crossing could help facilitate the movement of Azerbaijani hazelnuts into Bulgaria and onward to other European markets.

The discussions form part of broader efforts to strengthen cooperation between Azerbaijan and Bulgaria in food safety and agricultural trade.