Classification
Product TypeProcessed Food
Product FormShelf-stable concentrate (tomato paste)
Industry PositionProcessed Vegetable Product
Market
Tomato paste in Azerbaijan is supplied by a mix of domestic processing and imports, with domestic branded retail products available (e.g., Bizim Tarla/Azersun) alongside imported supply. UN Comtrade-based data via the World Bank WITS platform indicates Azerbaijan imported HS 200290 (“tomatoes, prepared or preserved otherwise than by vinegar or acetic acid — other”) in 2023 with Iran as the dominant supplier, while also exporting HS 200290 regionally (notably to Georgia and Kazakhstan). Food safety and border controls relevant to processed tomato products fall under the Food Safety Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (AQTA/AFSA), including import-export operations and risk-based state control across the food chain. Market access is sensitive to labeling compliance, including Azerbaijani-language labeling and accurate shelf-life/ingredient information.
Market RoleNet importer with domestic processing and regional exports
Risks
Agricultural Pest Pressure HighEPPO’s Global Database lists the tomato pest Phthorimaea absoluta (Tuta absoluta) as present in Azerbaijan, creating a systemic risk of tomato crop losses that can disrupt raw tomato availability and raise input costs for domestic tomato paste processors.Require supplier Integrated Pest Management (IPM) evidence, monitor NPPO/EPPO updates, diversify tomato sourcing regions/suppliers, and maintain seasonal buffer inventory for paste production.
Supply Concentration MediumTrade data for HS 200290 (2023) show Azerbaijan’s imports concentrated in a small set of suppliers, with Iran the dominant source, so cross-border disruption or supplier-side shocks can tighten supply and affect pricing.Qualify alternative suppliers (e.g., Türkiye/Russia/Georgia) and build dual-sourcing plus safety-stock policies for key SKUs and industrial packs.
Regulatory Compliance MediumLabeling non-compliance can block market entry: Azerbaijan requires Azerbaijani-language labeling and specific consumer information; reported AQTA enforcement includes preventing import/circulation when Azerbaijani information is missing.Pre-approve Azerbaijani label artwork, verify ingredient/shelf-life statements, and run a pre-shipment compliance checklist aligned to buyer and border requirements.
Documentation And Traceability MediumAzerbaijan’s Food Safety Law and AFSI traceability guidance emphasize traceability and documentation across the food chain; weak batch/lot documentation can increase enforcement, delay, or withdrawal risk.Maintain lot-level traceability (inputs to finished packs), keep document retention aligned to local requirements, and ensure rapid recall readiness for both retail and bulk/industrial shipments.
FAQ
How is “tomato paste” defined under Codex for processed tomato concentrates?Codex CXS 57-1981 defines tomato paste as a processed tomato concentrate with at least 24% natural total soluble solids (measured without added salt). Tomato puree is defined as 7% to less than 24% natural total soluble solids.
What is a key labeling requirement that can affect tomato paste import clearance in Azerbaijan?Food labels are expected to be in Azerbaijani (English can be used if Azerbaijani information is also provided), and missing Azerbaijani-language information has been cited by AQTA-related reporting as a basis for preventing import/circulation. The U.S. Commercial Guide lists required label elements such as product name/brand, producer, origin, shelf life, net weight, and storage instructions.
What is a major upstream risk for tomato paste production in Azerbaijan?EPPO reports the tomato pest Phthorimaea absoluta (Tuta absoluta) as present in Azerbaijan, which can drive crop losses and disrupt raw tomato supply needed for paste processing.