New appointment for Construction Working Group

AmCham Azerbaijan is pleased to announce the new appointment of Mr. Farid Safguliyev, as a Deputy Chairperson of the Construction Working Group.  Please note that those who would like to become a member of the working group and have suggestions regarding potential discussion topics, can reach out to us at chamber@amchamaz.org. Mr. Farid Safguliyev is the Founder and CEO of FARCHITECTS Group, which includes BRG Construction and FARCHITECTS Hospitality. FARCHITECTS collaborates with both national and international clients, in and out of Azerbaijan, and provides a full spectrum of services including design, construction, fit-out, decoration and furniture to assets ranging from private residences and offices to luxury restaurants and five-star hotels. Prior to establishing his own business, Mr. Safguliyev spent twelve years in various construction and design-related roles. His most recent position was that of Construction Manager in one of the leading companies in the region – PASHA Construction. In this role, he successfully managed international projects – including the redesign of the "Shirvan" Restaurant in Paris and the creation of the "Jardin D’Azerbaijan" (Park of Azerbaijan) in Evian – as well as the design and outfitting for iconic restaurants and primary business estates in Baku.Mr. Safguliyev has a bachelor’s degree in architecture and construction. He is married and has a daughter.We extend our best wishes to Mr. Safguliyev as he embarks on his new role, hoping for his success and fulfillment in it. 

AmCham Azerbaijan's Back-to-Business Cocktail Reception launches the New Business Season

On September 18, 2023, the American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan, welcomed over 200 members of its community for its annual Back-to-Business Cocktail Reception. Held as the summer holiday season came to a close, the event marked the start of a vibrant new business chapter filled with new opportunities and events. Ms. Gulnara Aslanbayli, Executive Director of AmCham Azerbaijan, and Ms. Nargiz Nasrullayeva-Muduroglu, President of AmCham Azerbaijan, extended a warm welcome to attendees, expressing their pleasure at reconnecting after the summer break and offering best wishes for a prosperous year ahead.Then, Mr. Hugo Guevara, Deputy Chief of Mission of U.S. Embassy in Baku, noted the United States' commitment to being a partner in promoting economic diversification and maintaining stability and prosperity in Azerbaijan. He emphasized the Embassy's ongoing collaboration with the American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan to create opportunities for U.S. businesses.Ilgar Mehti, AmCham First Vice-President and Director of Ekvita, extended his warmest welcome to all the guests and pointed out the long-term fruitful cooperation between Ekvita and AmCham Azerbaijan, expressing the willingness to commit to this partnership for the years ahead. He also emphasized that Ekvita known for its remarkable achievements in the industry is joyously celebrating 15th anniversary this year. Then, Mr. Irakli Gabriadze, General Manager of Procter and Gamble, noted the celebration of the company's 25th anniversary this year. He shared insights into the company's history and its longstanding cooperation with the Chamber.The evening featured delectable cuisine, lively music, and ample networking opportunities, fostering connections among the AmCham community.The event was held with the generous sponsorship of Ekvita and Procter&Gamble. 

A meeting between AmCham Human Resources & Labor Committee and Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of Azerbaijan was held

On August 8, 2023, the Human Resources and Labor Committee of the American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan had a meeting with representatives of Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of Azerbaijan. The discussions focused on recent social reforms and accomplishments within the country, highlighting the strides made in this regard.The meeting delved into the steps taken to enhance labor legislation in response to contemporary challenges and the evolving demands of the labor market. Presentations were given on the recent modifications in labor legislation. Notably, the significance of the "Labor and Employment" subsystem was underscored, with a particular emphasis on the pivotal role anticipated from the newly established Labor Protection Center in furnishing methodological assistance to employers.The representatives of the Ministry's Labor Policy Department and the State Labor Inspection Service, alongside representatives from the Committee, engaged in a fruitful exchange of viewpoints. This dialogue extended to matters related to the practical implementation of the Labor Code, providing an opportunity for the Committee members to share their perspectives and recommendations.

AmCham CEO Cocktail Reception on Celebration of US Independence Day

On July 13, 2023, AmCham Azerbaijan organized CEO Cocktail Reception on Celebration of US Independence Day. In keeping with its tradition, the Cocktail brought together CEOs and Partners of AmCham member companies, ambassadors, AmCham committee chairpersons and different government officials. Executive Director of AmCham Azerbaijan Ms. Gulnara Aslanbayli officially opened the event by greeting the guests and giving a brief foreword of the event. During her speech, she especially emphasized the valuable contributions of the sponsors to the reception and appreciated their support on behalf of the Chamber. The speech of Ms. Aslanbayli was followed by Azerbaijan and U.S. National Anthems. Taking the floor, President of AmCham Azerbaijan Ms. Nargiz Nasrullayeva-Muduroglu welcomed the event participants and sent her sincere congratulations to all US citizens on the occasion of Independence Day. Ms. President also touched upon the commitment of the Chamber to its main strategic goals on improving the business environment in Azerbaijan, promoting the interests of foreign and local businesses, and playing a significant role in the communication between public and private sectors. She also highlighted the importance of the cooperation between AmCham Azerbaijan and US Embassy in Baku in achieving these goals. Afterwards, the floor was passed to Mr. Andrew Berdy, Acting Deputy Chief of Mission at US Embassy in Baku to share the celebration of this special occasion with the guests. Pointing out the significance and noteworthiness of Independence Day in the history of US, Mr. Berdy once again congratulated his compatriots from the bottom of his heart. During his speech, he highlighted the long-lasting and fruitful relationship covering various areas between Azerbaijan and United States as well. Furthermore, Mr. Berdy also mentioned the close cooperation between the Embassy and the Chamber on promoting the business interests of both countries. The Cocktail Reception continued with several show programs, live music band performance and DJ show. Additionally, the reception also featured a particular Raffle Show where the guests got an opportunity to win exclusive prizes offered by AmCham member companies. The most memorable part of the event was cate cutting ceremony with a spectacular firework show by the President Ms. Nargiz Nasrullayeva-Muduroglu and Mr. Andrew Berdy from US Embassy to celebrate this remarkable day. The event was held with the generous contribution and support of Gold Sponsor - BP, Silver Sponsor – The Landmark, Bronze Sponsors - Coca-Cola, Carlsberg, Jumanji and Hillside, and Other sponsors – Highlight Events, Bloom Group, PMD Hospitality, JW Marriott Absheron Baku, Four Seasons Hotel Baku, Hilton Hotel, Hyatt Regency Baku, RESM Jewelry, Holiday Inn Baku, Office Systems, Fairmont Baku Flame Towers, and Kapital Bank.

AmCham Members’ July Luncheon with Minister Teymur Musayev

On July 5, 2023, the American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan) organized its Members' July Luncheon with honorable guest speaker Mr. Teymur Musayev, Minister of Healthcare of the Republic of Azerbaijan.The event commenced with a warm welcome from Ms. Gulnara Aslanbayli, the Executive Director of AmCham Azerbaijan. Ms. Aslanbayli announced the Chamber's new members and provided updates on upcoming plans and events.Ms. Nargiz Nasrullayeva-Muduroglu, the President of AmCham Azerbaijan, introduced Mr. Teymur Musayev as the distinguished guest speaker. Ms. Nasrullayeva emphasized the significance of healthcare in everyone's lives, stating that it concerns every individual. She expressed confidence in Mr. Musayev's capability to lead the healthcare sector and highlighted AmCham's commitment to supporting the Ministry through its various committees and working groups.During his address, Mr. Musayev highlighted the extensive reforms that have taken place in Azerbaijan's public healthcare system in recent years. These reforms have been based on modern principles, incorporating innovative technologies and progressive management resources. He outlined the three main principles underpinning successful healthcare reforms: the development of human capital, digitization of healthcare, and the new economics of the healthcare system and its financing.The Minister emphasized the country's transition to a comprehensive digital healthcare platform, leveraging modern information and communication technologies to enhance accessibility, strengthen the human factor, and streamline citizen-official communication in public services.Mr. Musayev also mentioned purposeful and sustainable projects aimed at fostering a modern mindset and international practices among medical professionals, facilitating successful exchanges in the healthcare field, and promoting inclusive development in medical education and science.Following his speech, Minister Musayev participated in an open and interactive Q&A session, where he addressed all questions from the audience.Thereafter, member presentations on portfolio and activity direction of the company were delivered by “DersEvi”.The event concluded with closing remarks from Ms. Gulnara Aslanbayli, expressing gratitude to all participants for their attendance and engagement.

AmCham Executive Director Ms. Gulnara Aslanbayli participated in the ACE Annual Conference 2023

On May 8-12, 2023, Executive Director of American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan) Ms. Gulnara Aslanbayli together with the executive delegation of AmChams in Europe (ACE)  actively participated in the ACE Annual Conference 2023. The primary objective of this influential event was to highlight the significance of transatlantic relations, foster stronger relationships among international counterparts, and obtain important insights into the economic and political landscape of the United States.This year's conference held exceptional significance as ACE celebrated its remarkable 60th anniversary. To commemorate this historic milestone, ACE Executive Directors embarked on a comprehensive journey to Washington and Houston from May 8th to May 12th, 2023. During their visit, they had the privilege to engage with prestigious government institutions, agencies, and administrations, amplifying the collaborative efforts between business and the public sector. The delegation was honored to visit esteemed establishments, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Department of Commerce and State, and the Export-Import Bank (EXIM Bank), where discussions on crucial policy matters took place.Furthermore, the ACE Executive Directors were granted an exceptional opportunity to explore the NASA Space Center, witnessing firsthand the cutting-edge advancements in space exploration, and even had the privilege to interact with senior leaders from some of the largest U.S. firms. These engaging meetings provided a platform for sharing ideas, discussing future collaborations, and strengthening bilateral relationships.Within the framework of this highly productive visit, key policy matters were thoroughly discussed with leading stakeholders, resulting in valuable insights and recommendations to further enhance transatlantic cooperation and address emerging challenges in the global economic landscape. The ACE Annual Conference 2023 served as a cornerstone event in fostering international ties, promoting economic growth, and advancing mutual understanding among participating countries.

AmCham Members’ May Luncheon with the Governor of CBAR, Mr. Taleh Kazimov

On May 11, 2023, the American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan) hosted its Members’ May Luncheon with honourable guest speaker Mr. Taleh Kazimov, the Governor of the Central Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan (CBA). Opening the luncheon, Operations Director of AmCham Azerbaijan, Mr. Zaur Karimov welcomed the participants and briefed on the upcoming projects and events of the Chamber.Ms. Nargiz Nasrullayeva-Muduroglu, the President of AmCham Azerbaijan, extended a heartfelt welcome to the honourable guest speaker of the Luncheon and expressed her gratitude for his collaboration. She highlighted the ongoing endeavours of AmCham Azerbaijan in fostering the interests of local and international businesses in Azerbaijan. Ms. President also emphasized the Chamber's enduring commitment to maintaining constructive discussions and cooperation with the Central Bank of Azerbaijan across various areas of common interests. Mr. Governor warmly welcomed all the participants of the event and expressed his gratitude to the Chamber for providing a great opportunity to engage in productive discussion with the business community. He provided a brief overview of the current trends in the macroeconomic environment and financial sector of the country, highlighting the critical role of the banking system in facilitating economic growth. He emphasized that the ongoing new generation reforms and macroeconomic policies have contributed to the achievement of macroeconomic and financial stability in the country that ensure a sustainable growth in a long run. Mr. Kazimov also discussed the key efforts to further strengthen the leading role of the financial system in promoting financial inclusion and access in Azerbaijan. He expressed the need for the financial sector to improve its readiness to tackle new challenges in global financial landscape. At the end, Mr. Governor discussed new objectives of the Central Bank aiming at enhancing the contribution of the financial sector to the development of the national economy in the future.The speech was followed by an interactive Q&A session, where all questions of business representatives were addressed by Mr. Kazimov.Afterwards, AmCham Banking, Finance & Insurance committee’s chairperson Mr. Jeyhun Mammadbayli gave a brief information on the forthcoming plans and activities of the committee. He also highlighted that the Chamber attaches significant value to the collaboration with CBAR and further strengthening of these ties.Thereafter, presentations on company portfolio and activities were delivered by ARAL Group, Unicapital, and Legalize. Over 160 people participated in the luncheon including high-ranking government officials, representatives of diplomatic corps, and senior executives from business community and member companies.

AmCham Members’ April Luncheon with the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Global Markets Mr. Arun Venkataraman

On April 4, 2023, the American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan) hosted its Members’ April Luncheon with honorable guest speaker Mr. Arun Venkataraman, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Global Markets and Director General of the U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service.The luncheon also featured organization of bilateral meetings with U.S. businesses interested in supporting the advancement of Azerbaijan's renewable energy ecosystem.Opening the event, Executive Director of AmCham Azerbaijan, Ms. Gulnara Aslanbayli welcomed the participants and briefed on the upcoming projects and events of the Chamber.Ms. Nargiz Nasrullayeva-Muduroglu, President of AmCham Azerbaijan, warmly welcomed the distinguished guest speaker of the Luncheon and expressed her appreciation for his partnership. She highlighted AmCham Azerbaijan's continued efforts to support and advance the interests of both foreign and local businesses in Azerbaijan. Ms. President emphasized the Chamber’s long-standing commitment to continue productive dialogue and cooperation with the government and businesses in all areas of common interest to expand the scope of the U.S.-Azerbaijan bilateral relationship.The Assistant Secretary Mr. Venkataraman extended a warm welcome to all the attendees of the event and expressed gratitude to the Chamber for the opportunity to engage with the business community. He emphasized the significance of such events in enabling U.S. companies interested in green opportunities in Azerbaijan to meet with business representatives directly. Additionally, Mr. Venkataraman highlighted the Department of Commerce and the U.S. private sector's commitment to supporting Azerbaijan in achieving its clean energy targets. He acknowledged the United States' commitment to collaborate with Azerbaijan on green energy and reducing emissions in high-carbon sectors. Mr. Venkataraman also mentioned that the current US administration has launched a coordinated, comprehensive approach to tackling climate change.The presentation was followed by an interactive Q&A session, where all the questions of business representatives were addressed by Mr. Venkataraman.Thereafter, presentations on company portfolio and activities were delivered by Altec, Borusan Cat, Cerberus, Hill International, SELECT Power Systems, Solar Tyme USA, UGT Renewables. During the presentations, company representatives expressed their readiness to share U.S. technical and financial expertise with local businesses to foster Azerbaijan’s strong renewable energy potential, including solar and wind resources.The second part of the event continued with organization of bilateral meeting between US companies and over 30 AmCham members. During the meetings, parties deliberated on ways to expand trade and investment between the United States and Azerbaijan. They also gained insights on companies’ operations, spotlighted commercial collaborations and partnerships, and shared their experiences regarding the local business environment.Over 130 people participated in the luncheon including high-ranking government officials, representatives of diplomatic corps, senior executives from business community and member companies.

AmCham Members’ March Luncheon with the Head of State Tax Service Mr. Orkhan Nazarli

On March 14, 2023, the American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan) organized its Members’ March Luncheon with honorable guest speaker Mr. Orkhan Nazarli, Head of the State Tax Service under the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan.The Luncheon was organized with the generous sponsorship of PASHA Property Management LLC. Opening the event, Executive Director of AmCham Azerbaijan, Ms. Gulnara Aslanbayli welcomed the participants. Ms. Aslanbayli briefly touched upon the projects implemented within the strategic goals of the Chamber, as well as talked on the upcoming plans and events. Ms. Nargiz Nasrullayeva-Muduroglu, President of AmCham Azerbaijan, warmly welcomed the distinguished guest speaker at the Luncheon and thanked him for his role in the continuous and productive cooperation between the Chamber and the State Tax Service. She highlighted AmCham Azerbaijan's continued efforts to support and advance the interests of both foreign and local businesses in Azerbaijan. Ms. Nasrullayeva-Muduroglu also emphasised the organization's long-standing commitment to this goal and the importance of its productive dialogue and cooperation with the State Tax Service towards achieving it.Head of State Tax Service, Mr. Orkhan Nazarli thanked the participants of the Luncheon and noted that the relations between the STS and AmCham Azerbaijan uniting hundreds of foreign and local businesses, are based on the principles of effective partnership. It was noted that the STS attaches great importance to improving tax policy and tax administration, providing new services to taxpayers, holding various discussions with public organizations of entrepreneurs to further improve the business environment. Mr. Nazarli noted that such meetings play an exceptional role in developing partnerships between tax authorities and business structures and further increasing the level of taxpayers' compliance with tax legislation. Mr. Nazarli also emphasized that the STS is interested in building partnerships with businesses in the process of improving tax legislation in order to create a favorable investment climate that will ensure sustainable economic growth in the country. He also informed the participants about the main directions of tax policy, trends in the field of tax legislation and administration in the upcoming periods.The presentation was followed by an interactive Q&A session, where suggestions and opinions of business representatives were considered, and all questions were addressed by Mr. Orkhan Nazarli.The event continued with the presentations of the member companies. First presentation was delivered by the sponsor of the event, PASHA Property Management. Chief Commercial Officer of PASHA Property Management, Mr. Elchin Gadimov provided comprehensive information on the main goals and values, as well as current activities and impending projects of the company. Thereafter, member presentations on portfolio and activity direction of the company were delivered by European Azerbaijan School. Afterwards, AmCham Tax & Customs committee chairperson Ms. Narmin Aslanova gave a brief information on the upcoming plans and activities of the committee. She also highlighted that the Chamber attaches significant value to the collaboration with the STS and further strengthening of these ties.Over 140 people participated in the luncheon including high-ranking government officials, representatives of diplomatic corps, senior executives from business community and member companies.

AmCham Azerbaijan organized 4th Conference on “Ethics and Compliance in Azerbaijan”

On February 28, 2023, the American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan) organized 4th AmCham Conference on “Ethics and Compliance in Azerbaijan”. The event was held with the support of the Platinum sponsors – BP and NEQSOL Holding. Mr. Zaur Allahverdizade, Vice-President of AmCham Azerbaijan, and Ms. Gulnara Aslanbayli, Executive Director of AmCham Azerbaijan, delivered opening speeches and welcomed the participants. The importance of such conferences in promoting compliance among businesses in Azerbaijan with the pertinent laws, regulations, and ethical standards, while also fostering advancing the discourse on ethics and compliance in the region was highlighted. Thereafter, the floor was passed to Mr. Ramin Valizada, Executive Secretary of the Commission on Combating Corruption of the Republic of Azerbaijan.Mr. Ramin Valizada welcomed the participants and acknowledged the Chamber's ongoing efforts to enhance the business environment in Azerbaijan. Mr. Valizada talked on the the strategies, programs, and reforms that have been implemented to combat corruption in the country. He also emphasized the importance of the Anti-Corruption Commission's deliberate and focused efforts in this area and highlighted the key role of the State Program on Combating Corruption in achieving positive outcomes.The Conference highlighted two panel discussions. The topic of the first panel was “Enforcement of anticorruption laws: international and local practices and perspectives”. Moderator of the first panel was Deputy Chairperson of AmCham Legal and Compliance Committee Mr. Toghrul Ahmadov, Chief Legal Officer of NEQSOL Holding. The first panel featured the speeches by Mr. Isfandiyar Hajiyev, Anti-Corruption Directorate with the Prosecutor General of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ms. Ann Sultan, Miller & Chevalier Chartered, Mr. Seyfalpasha Aliyev, Judicial-Legal Council of Azerbaijan, and Ms. Rachel Cropper-Mawer, Partner at Clyde & Co. LLP. During the first panel, speakers discussed legal and institutional frameworks in Azerbaijan, global anti-corruption developments and enforcement trends, the role of the judiciary in fighting corruption, as well as insights into best practices for preventing and mitigating corruption risks.The second panel was dedicated to the “International Sanctions: challenges and perspectives for businesses”. Moderator of the panel was Chairperson of AmCham Legal and Compliance Committee Mr. Kamil Valiyev, Partner at Dentons.  Speakers of the second panel were Ms. Indira Dashdamirova, ITC Leader of CIS region at Baker Hughes, Mr. Vagif Ahmadov, AGT Region E&C Manager of BP, and Mr. Nurlan Babayev, Head of Supervision department at the Financial Monitoring Service. During the panel discussion, the speakers touched upon the challenges and implications of international sanctions for businesses operating in Azerbaijan. They provided insights into the best practices for navigating and complying with these sanctions, as well as the potential risks and consequences of non-compliance. The role of governmental agencies and organizations in providing support and guidance to businesses in meeting their obligations related to international sanctions was also highlighted. The panel provided valuable information and guidance to help businesses effectively manage the challenges posed by international sanctions.The panel discussions were followed by interactive Q&A session, as well as exchange of views and best practices.More than 100 people participated in the conference, including high-ranking government officials, senior executives from business community, member companies and representatives of diplomatic corps.Click for the highlights from the Conference Click for all the media from the Conference