OREANDA-NEWS.  January 24, 2012. Azerbaijan will continue grain import in 2012 as well.

Head of Plant Growing Department of Agricultural Ministry of Azerbaijan Sabir Veliyev has reported that about 2 million tons crop is expected this year whereas the country’s annual demand for grain makes 3 million tons.

"The country annually covers 70%-75% of its need for grain through domestic production and this tendency will keep in 2012",- S. Veliyev said.

In his words it would be reasonable to create reserve fund to stimulate local farmers. Grain of local production for reasonable price will be collected in the fund which will enable to reduce grain import.

Azerbaijan mainly imports grain from Russia, Kazakhstan and Ukraine.

Grain Fund in the country operates under Ministry for Emergency Situations.