Türkiye is studying Azerbaijan’s experience in sturgeon farming and caviar production, with a particular focus on protecting endangered species such as the beluga.

Officials from Türkiye’s Central Fisheries Research Institute, operating under the General Directorate of Agricultural Research and Policies of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, shared the information, according to Sputnik Azerbaijan.

The institute, based in Trabzon, has conducted research and implemented projects related to Türkiye’s marine and inland water resources since 1987. Its work includes studies in the Black Sea, which accounts for around 80% of the country’s fisheries sector.

As part of cooperation with relevant Azerbaijani institutions, Turkish researchers are examining Azerbaijan’s methods for breeding endangered sturgeon species, particularly beluga, as well as its experience in caviar production.

Under a government program, Türkiye’s Central Fisheries Research Institute also operates breeding facilities where sturgeon species requiring specialized care are raised.

The developments come as Trabzon hosts an international event ahead of COP31, which will take place in Antalya in November. The program, organized by the Communications Directorate of the Turkish Presidency, is being held from September 10-12 and brings together 27 journalists from 17 countries.