AmCham Digital Economy and Innovations Committee’s June meeting

On June 7, 2023, AmCham Digital Economy and Innovations committee held its monthly meeting dedicated to the drafting recommendations for the White Paper 2023. Chairperson of AmCham DEI Committee Mr. Babak Aghayev opened the meeting by welcoming all the participants and providing a brief overview of the discussion agenda. During the meeting, the members of AmCham actively participated in the discussions on each recommendation, making noteworthy contributions by offering valuable insights and perspectives. These comprehensive recommendations, alongside other pertinent sections, will be subsequently compiled and presented to the Government of Azerbaijan for consideration.At the end, Mr. Aghayev thanked the participants for their active involvement and valuable contributions..

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 

AmCham Members’ February Luncheon with the Chairman Mr. Shahin Baghirov

On February 15, 2023, the American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan) hosted its Members’ February Luncheon with honorable guest speaker Mr. Shahin Baghirov, Chairman of the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The event started with a minute of silence to commemorate the victims of the massive earthquake in the Republic of Turkey. Opening the luncheon, 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. She also informed the audience on the start of the drafting of White Paper 2023 and called all members to be actively involved in the preparation process. President of AmCham Azerbaijan Ms. Nargiz Nasrullayeva-Muduroglu introduced the honorable guest speaker Chairman Mr. Shahin Baghirov and expressed her congratulations for his recent appointment. Ms. President also emphasized sustained activity of AmCham Azerbaijan on continuing supporting and promoting the interests of foreign and local businesses in Azerbaijan, as well as significance of the established fruitful dialogue and successful cooperation with the State Customs committee in this direction.  The chairman of the State Customs Committee, the lieutenant general of the customs service Mr. Shahin Bagirov noted that he attaches special importance to the establishment of relations with business representatives of the customs bodies on a business basis, as well as open and transparent dialogue in customs-business cooperation, and emphasized that necessary steps have been taken to increase the efficiency of mutual relations. It was also mentioned that one of the main goals defined for the customs service is to create fertile conditions for business subjects in the customs field, to study and implement their suggestions and opinions regarding the adopted decisions and applied innovations.For this purpose, it has been brought to attention that the action plan has been prepared by the customs authorities in recent times, and the implementation of innovative projects based on digital solutions has been started to increase the rationality, transparency, and accessibility of the procedures, to implement the customs operations in an easy and fast manner. The chairman also delivered an information on the mission of the customs authorities, the priority directions of the future activities, strategic goals, and the projects, innovations, and benefits for businesses. 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 the Chairman Baghirov.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 committee and further strengthening of ties among customs authorities. Associate professor at ADA University Mr. Anar Valiyev delivered a presentation on the results of the research project on “Factors affecting Education-Labour market mismatch in Azerbaijan and finding sustainable solutions for employers” jointly implemented with the Chamber.Thereafter, member presentations on portfolio and activity direction of the companies were delivered by Grand Logistic Center and ISR Auto. Over 150 people participated in the luncheon including high-ranking government officials, representatives of diplomatic corps, senior executives from business community and member companies.Click for highlights from the luncheon  

AmCham GALA Concert dedicated to 30th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Azerbaijan and the U.S.

On December 16, 2022, AmCham Azerbaijan hosted a GALA Concert dedicated to 30th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between the United States and Azerbaijan. The GALA evening featured performance of Azerbaijan State Symphony Orchestra named after U. Hajibayli conducted by People's Artist of Azerbaijan Mr. Yalchin Adigezalov, and solo performance by Ms. Seljan Nasibli. During the concert, guests enjoyed the impressive classical music performance of the compositions of most celebrated Azerbaijani and U.S. composers: Samuel Barber, Fikrat Amirov, George Gershwin and Gara Garayev .Around 500 guests including high-ranking government officials, ambassadors, representatives of diplomatic corps, senior executives from business community and member companies attend the event. Click for the highlights from the Gala Concert Click for all the media from the Gala Concert

15th Annual AmCham Black & White Ball 2022

On December 3, 2022, the American Chamber of Commerce of Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan) hosted its 15th Annual Black & White Ball in Gulustan Palace. Traditionally the Ball brought together business leaders, government officials, ambassadors in an absolutely unique environment.With more than 600 guests, this spectacular landmark event became the highlight of AmCham’s social calendar. This year’s Ball – themed as “Angels & Demons” – embraced the atmosphere of the grandiose evening of elegance and grace with guests enjoying spectacular live music, magnificent entertainment show, outstanding program and experience. The audience was welcomed with the official opening speeches by Executive Director of AmCham Azerbaijan Ms. Gulnara Aslanbayli, Mr. Nargiz Nasrullayeva-Muduroglu, President of AmCham Azerbaijan as well as Mr. Hugo Guevara, Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Baku.Afterwards, the floor was passed to the chief representatives of the Platinum and Gold Sponsors:Platinum Sponsor: BP - Mr. Bakhtiyar Aslanbayli, Vice President for the Caspian region, Communications and External Affairs. Gold Sponsors:Procter & Gamble Inc. Azerbaijan Branch -Mr. Deger Kurtaslanoglu, General ManagerPMD Group - Mr. Dayanat Sadullayev, Chief Executive Officer PASHA Insurance OJSC – Ms. Ulviyya Jabbarova, Chief Executive Officer Farchitects LLC - Mr. Farid Safquliyev, Chief Executive Officer It should be noted that a large number of generous Silver, Bronze and Other sponsors have also contributed to the organization of the event.The evening was concluded with a surprising raffle draw with over 120 winning tickets and dances till dawn. The top prizes of the raffle draw were round trip tickets to Milan, Italy and NY, U.S. Please note that raffle tickets starting from 1 to 120 are all the lucky winning tickets. Winning tickets’ list can be reviewed from the following link. Please check your raffle coupons and come to AmCham office to pick up the prizes. Prizes will be given only with the lucky tickets provided. Click for the highlights from the Ball Click for all the media from the Ball 

Women’s National Business Agenda(WNBA) were presented to the public

On November 3, 2022, Executive Director of AmCham Azerbaijan Ms. Gulnara Aslanbayli attended the official Launch of the Women's National Business Agenda (WNBA) for Women's Economic Empowerment organized by BAKU - The United States Agency for International Development (USAID).  Representing AmCham Azerbaijan as one of the significant contributors in preparation of the WNBA document, Ms. Aslanbayli participated in a panel discussion and shared perspectives on how the Chamber has influenced the work toward women's economic empowerment and the contributions to the building of the WNBA.During the event, the WNBA white paper which offers concrete recommendations and policy solutions to create a favourable business environment for women and remove barriers they face in the workplace was presented to the public. The survey findings on women's entrepreneurship in Azerbaijan were also shared with the participants of the event. During the panel discussion, Ms. Gulnara Aslanbayli informed the audience on the “Declaration of Support for Women’s Economic Empowerment” signed by the Chamber in order to implement comprehensive and sustainable policies, procedures, and activities to promote gender equality and diversity in line with defined commitments.  She also highlighted that in the framework of women’s economic empowerment strategic direction, AmCham will continue its active involvement in relevant meetings, roundtables and events to enhance diversity, equity and inclusion in trade and commerce. It was also emphasized that AmCham policy papers are being planned to be prepared based on the WNBA aimed to spread the best practices and ideas advancing women’s economic empowerment and entrepreneurship in Azerbaijan.The event was attended by more than 80 participants, including representatives from the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population, the Entrepreneurship Development Fund, the State Employment Agency, the State Committee for Family, Women and Children's Affairs, the Small and Medium Business Development Agency as well as the US organization "Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE)" and its Center for Women's Economic Empowerment, international organizations, business associations and women entrepreneurs.