AmCham Azerbaijan Mourns the Passing of Executive Director Gulnara Aslanbayli

𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐃𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐒𝐚𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬, 𝐀𝐦𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐦 𝐀𝐳𝐞𝐫𝐛𝐚𝐢𝐣𝐚𝐧 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐌𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐆𝐮𝐥𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐀𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐛𝐚𝐲𝐥𝐢For many years, Gulnara played a vital role in the growth and development of AmCham Azerbaijan, contributing with dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to strengthening the business community of the country.Her leadership, wisdom, and warm personality left a lasting mark on our organization and on everyone who had the privilege of working with her.We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. Her memory and contributions will remain an enduring part of AmCham Azerbaijan’s legacy.

AmCham Azerbaijan Board Members Participated in the Global CEO Summit 2026

On February 25, 2026, the “Global CEO Summit” was held for the first time, organized by the Azerbaijan HR Institute in partnership with CEO Club Azerbaijan. The Summit’s Main Partner was LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional networking platform, further reinforcing the event’s international relevance and forward-looking agenda. Held under the theme “Leading Change Together,” the Summit brought together top executives to explore the evolving role of CEOs in a rapidly transforming business environment.AmCham Azerbaijan was strongly represented at the leadership level. Board Members Ms. Rana Mammadova, General Manager of Coca-Cola Bottlers Azerbaijan, and Mr. Kanan Tabasaransky, Owner of Smart Solutions, participated as speakers in the first panel session titled “The New Era of CEO Leadership: Transforming Vision into Impact.” Their insights highlighted the importance of strategic vision, adaptability, and impact-driven leadership in today’s dynamic business landscape.The Chamber’s management team was also in attendance, represented by Mr. Zaur Karimov, Deputy Director of AmCham Azerbaijan, reaffirming the Chamber’s commitment to advancing executive dialogue and fostering a resilient business community in Azerbaijan.

AmCham Members’ February Luncheon

On February 20, 2026, the American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan) successfully hosted its Members’ February Luncheon, bringing together a distinguished audience of business leaders, diplomats, and member representatives. The luncheon welcomed Mr. Gio Cristofoli, bp’s regional president for Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Türkiye, as the keynote speaker of the event. The event was organized with the generous sponsorship and support of bp, reflecting the company’s continued commitment to engaging with the broader business community and supporting platforms that foster dialogue and collaboration in Azerbaijan.The luncheon was opened by Ms. Sheyda Mustafabayli, PR & Engagement Officer of AmCham Azerbaijan, who warmly welcomed the attendees and highlighted the Chamber’s continued commitment to fostering a dynamic and collaborative business environment. She also extended a special welcome to the new members joining the AmCham community, underscoring the Chamber’s steady growth and expanding network across diverse sectors of the economy.Mr. Dayanat Sadullayev, President of AmCham Azerbaijan, addressed the audience, expressing appreciation to Mr. Gio Cristofoli and bp for their longstanding partnership and support. In his remarks, he emphasized the importance of regular member gatherings as a platform for dialogue, knowledge-sharing, and strengthening ties between the private sector and key stakeholders. He noted that such engagements play a vital role in advancing the Chamber’s mission of promoting a transparent, competitive, and resilient business environment in Azerbaijan.In his keynote presentation, Mr. Gio Cristofoli talked about growing global energy demand and bp’s strategy to help meet this demand responsibly. He outlined how bp-operated projects in the Caspian region are supporting this strategy in action through maximizing value from mature assets, unlocking new resources, and investing in the energy transition. Underscoring the role of the private sector in driving economic resilience, Mr. Cristofoli reaffirmed bp’s continued support to fostering collaborative engagement with the country’s business community.The program also featured a presentation by Mr. Fariz Jafarov, Executive Director of C4IR Azerbaijan, who shared insights into the Center’s ongoing initiatives and upcoming projects aimed at accelerating digital transformation and innovation in the country.In line with AmCham’s tradition of introducing new members to the broader business community, several recently joined companies delivered brief presentations outlining their activities and strategic priorities. These included Arthur D. Little (ADL), represented by Mr. Movlan Pashayev, Senior Executive; Zivella, represented by Ms. Daria Jafarli; Bayramli Group, represented by Ms. Durdana Rajili, Deputy Director; and Yango, represented by Mr. Urkhan Seyidov, Government Relations Director. The event concluded with a networking luncheon, providing participants with an opportunity to exchange views, explore potential partnerships, and strengthen professional connections within the AmCham community. 

AmCham Azerbaijan Successfully Hosted the 6th Annual Ethics and Compliance Conference

AmCham Azerbaijan successfully hosted the 6th Annual Conference on “Ethics and Compliance in Azerbaijan” on February 19, 2026. With the generous support of bp, Baker Hughes, and Dentons, the event brought together key business leaders, government officials, and compliance professionals to discuss corporate ethics, transparency, and regulatory compliance.Mr. Dayanat Sadullayev, President of AmCham Azerbaijan, opened the Conference by welcoming distinguished speakers, government representatives, and members of the business community. He emphasized AmCham’s long-standing tradition of convening high-level platforms on ethics and compliance, noting that the Conference has become one of the Chamber’s flagship initiatives. Highlighting the growing importance of integrity, transparency, and accountability in today’s complex business environment, he reaffirmed AmCham’s commitment to these principles, guided by its Code of Ethics. He emphasized that strengthening ethical standards and fostering a strong compliance culture remain strategic priorities for the Chamber and its members. In his remarks, Mr. Sadullayev also expressed sincere appreciation to the Conference sponsors — bp, Baker Hughes, and Dentons — for their generous support and partnership, noting that their continued engagement plays an important role in advancing dialogue and promoting high standards of business integrity in Azerbaijan.Mr. Bakhtiyar Aslanbayli, bp’s vice president for the Caspian region, reflected on the evolution of AmCham’s Legal and Compliance Working Group into a full Committee, noting that this development demonstrated the increasing recognition of ethics and compliance as core elements of corporate governance. He underscored the role of such conferences in institutionalizing best practices through dialogue and peer exchange. Referring to the AmCham ESG Governance Book as a practical example of collaborative guidance aligned with international standards, he suggested that AmCham could consider developing a dedicated Ethics and Compliance Guidance Book for companies operating in Azerbaijan. He also reaffirmed bp’s long-standing partnership with AmCham and its continued support for initiatives that strengthen governance and business integrity.Mr. Natig Eyvazov, Head of the Department of Preventive Measures and Inquiry at the Prosecutor General's Office of the Republic of Azerbaijan, outlined the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance the regulatory and enforcement framework in the field of compliance and anti-corruption. He highlighted preventive mechanisms aimed at increasing transparency and corporate responsibility, emphasizing the importance of proactive compliance culture and effective public–private cooperation.In his address, Mr. Zaur Allhavedizade focused on the practical implementation of ethics and compliance within companies, stressing that effective governance requires more than formal adherence to regulations. He emphasized the need for actionable tools, internal capacity-building, and structured guidance to ensure sustainable compliance systems. Reaffirming AmCham’s role as a platform for expert dialogue and knowledge-sharing, he highlighted the Chamber’s commitment to translating ethical principles into measurable corporate practices and long-term institutional trust.Throughout the event, two engaging panel discussions took place, addressing crucial topics in compliance and business ethics.The first panel, titled “Building a Compliance Management Function from Scratch,” focused on the practical and strategic aspects of establishing effective compliance systems within organizations. The discussions explored when and how companies should initiate compliance structures, how to allocate responsibilities, prioritize risks, and embed a strong ethical culture from the outset. Panelists also examined the role of technology, resource allocation, internal communication, and performance measurement in ensuring that compliance functions operate not merely as formal requirements, but as value-adding and sustainable components of corporate governance. The session provided practical insights relevant both for companies at the early stages of building compliance systems and for those seeking to strengthen existing frameworks.The panel featured notable industry leaders:Mr. Vagif Ahmadov - Ethics & compliance manager, bp, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Türkiye regionMs. Aytaj Gasimova - PhD, Head of Legal and Government Relations Department, PASHA HoldingMs. Togrul Valiyev - Head of Legal, Azerbaijan Coca-Cola BottlersMs. Aysel Karimli - Deputy Head of the Compliance Department, the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR)Mr. Nicolas Marinier - CAMS, Partner, Deloitte LuxembourgThe panel was moderated by Ms. Bahar Kavuzova, Senior Manager at Deloitte and Chairperson of AmCham Azerbaijan’s Legal & Compliance Committee, who guided the discussion and facilitated an engaging and insightful exchange among the speakers.The second panel session, titled “International Trade Compliance: Managing Sanctions Risk,” examined the increasing complexity of global sanctions regimes and the challenges companies face when operating across multiple jurisdictions. The discussion addressed key issues such as negotiating sanctions clauses in international contracts, detecting and preventing sanctions circumvention, and ensuring compliance with U.S. and EU regulatory frameworks. Panelists also explored practical risk management approaches, including effective screening mechanisms, internal controls, voluntary self-disclosure considerations, and the role of technology in strengthening sanctions compliance programs. The session provided valuable insights for multinational and internationally active Azerbaijani companies navigating today’s evolving sanctions landscape.The discussion showcased insights from leading industry experts: Ms. Afag Mammadova, Deputy Vice President, Legal and Compliance, SOCAR Mr. Joydeep Sengupta, Head of Global Compliance and Investigations, Dentons Mr. Antonio Ciavatta, Executive Compliance Counsel, Baker Hughes Mr. Nicola Passariello, Director, Moody’sMr. Zaur Nagiyev, Management Board Member/ Head of Legal ASCO The session was moderated by Ms. Leyla Hasanova Shahingoz, Head of Legal at NEQSOL Holding and representative of AmCham Azerbaijan, who led a focused and engaging discussion among the panelists.The Conference concluded with closing remarks by Mr. Kamil Valiyev, Board Member of AmCham Azerbaijan, who reflected on the key themes and insights shared throughout the day. In his address, he emphasized that ethics and compliance are not merely regulatory obligations, but strategic pillars that strengthen corporate resilience, investor confidence, and long-term economic sustainability. He noted that fostering a culture of integrity requires continuous dialogue, leadership commitment, and collective responsibility from both the public and private sectors. Mr. Valiyev underscored the importance of maintaining momentum beyond the Conference and translating discussions into practical action within organizations.At the conclusion of the event, appreciation awards were presented to all speakers and sponsors in recognition of their valuable contributions and partnership.The Conference was made possible through the generous sponsorship of bp, Baker Hughes, and Dentons. AmCham Azerbaijan extends its sincere appreciation to its valued partners for their continued trust, commitment, and meaningful support. 

AmCham Azerbaijan: The Strategic Partnership Charter Marks the Beginning of a New Phase in Bilateral Relations

The American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan welcomes the signing of the Charter on Strategic Partnership between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the United States of America, signed on February 10, 2026, in Baku by President Ilham Aliyev and U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, and recognizes it as the begining of a new chapter in bilateral relations.The signing of such a strategic document represents a logical continuation of the successful outcomes achieved in bilateral relations, particularly in recent years. It reflects the strong commitment of both governments to further deepen cooperation in key areas of mutual interest — including economic development, regional connectivity, energy security, innovation, and technology. At the same time, the document serves as a renewed affirmation of support for the sovereignty of the countries in the region, as well as for regional stability and long-term sustainable development.Within the scope of its mandate and activities, AmCham Azerbaijan highly values the emphasis placed in the Charter on expanding economic cooperation and ensuring the active involvement of the private sector in the implementation of this strategic partnership. The demonstrated mutual political will to further improve the business environment, enhance trade relations and investment flows, strengthen regional connectivity, and promote innovation — including in digital and technological fields — sends a highly progressive and positive signal to the international business community.The elevation of U.S.–Azerbaijan relations to a Strategic Partnership framework sends a strong and positive signal to the business communities of both nations. It reinforces long-term cooperation, enhances predictability, and creates an enabling environment for expanded trade, investment, and private sector engagement.As the leading voice of the international business community in Azerbaijan, AmCham Azerbaijan supports initiatives that promote stability, economic integration, investment expansion, innovation, and sustainable growth. We believe that the strengthened strategic framework will further enhance the business climate and unlock new opportunities for American and Azerbaijani companies across strategic sectors.AmCham Azerbaijan firmly states that it will continue to serve as a trusted platform for dialogue, partnership, and constructive engagement in support of this new phase of U.S.–Azerbaijan relations.The full text of the Charter is available on the official website of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan:🔗https://president.az/en/articles/view/71553

AmCham Azerbaijan Hosts High-Level U.S. Business Delegation Networking Reception

On February 10, 2026, The American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan), in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in Baku, and U.S. Chamber of Commerce successfully hosted the High-Level U.S. Business Delegation Networking Reception.The event was organized within the framework of the inaugural bilateral business mission to Azerbaijan, led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce with the support of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Commerce. The mission represented an important step in further strengthening strategic economic cooperation between the United States and Azerbaijan.In his welcome address, Mr. Dayanat Sadullayev, President of AmCham Azerbaijan, welcomed the distinguished delegation and underscored the significance of the inaugural U.S. business mission to Azerbaijan as a strong signal of deepening bilateral economic cooperation and shared confidence in Azerbaijan’s growing role as a strategic business and investment partner. He highlighted the broad representation of leading American companies across key sectors and emphasized that such high-level engagement reflects the depth of opportunity and long-term potential of U.S.–Azerbaijan commercial relations. Reaffirming AmCham’s role as a trusted platform for dialogue and partnership, he expressed appreciation to the U.S. Embassy, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, AZPROMO for their close collaboration in advancing bilateral business ties.Mr. Yusif Abdullayev, Executive Director of AZPROMO, expressed his pride in AZPROMO’s involvement in this landmark trade mission, warmly welcoming the delegation of 31 leading U.S. companies to Azerbaijan. He described the visit as a significant milestone and the beginning of a new phase in U.S.–Azerbaijan economic relations, reaffirming AZPROMO’s strong commitment to further deepening bilateral trade, investment, and business cooperation. He expressed his sincere appreciation to AmCham Azerbaijan for organizing such a distinguished platform and for creating a valuable opportunity that fosters direct and meaningful engagement between American and Azerbaijani companies. He conveyed his best wishes for productive discussions, strong partnerships, and successful outcomes for all participants.Ms. Jennifer Miel, Vice President for the Middle East, Central Asia & Türkiye at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, underscored the long-standing commercial ties between the United States and Azerbaijan. She highlighted the U.S. Chamber’s commitment to deepening bilateral trade relations and supporting American companies in exploring new opportunities in Azerbaijan’s evolving market landscape. Ms. Miel noted that the delegation reflects strong interest from U.S. industry leaders in expanding cooperation across strategic sectors.The program continued with Company Spotlight Speeches from leading multinational corporations.Representing bp, Ms. Mary Streett, Senior Vice President, Communications and External Affairs, Americas, emphasized bp’s longstanding partnership with Azerbaijan and its contribution to the country’s energy development over the past decades. She highlighted the importance of energy security, sustainability, and continued collaboration in both traditional and renewable energy projects.Remarks were also delivered by representatives of Baker Hughes, Herbalife, and Marriott, who shared insights into their operations, commitment to the Azerbaijani market, and perspectives on future collaboration.The reception brought together senior executives, government officials, AmCham Azerbaijan members, and representatives of the Azerbaijani private sector.The high-level U.S. delegation included distinguished companies such as Apple, Ardea Energy Technologies Inc. Co., Aretera Public Affairs, Baker Hughes, bp, Ericsson, Esin Attorney Partnership / Baker McKenzie International, ExxonMobil, Fuji Engineering, Herbalife, Hill International, Honeywell, Illumina, Lummus Technology, Marriott, Mastercard, Meta, Motorola Solutions, Resecurity, Shell International, Straife, The Coca-Cola Company, Visa, Vertiv, among others.A key highlight of the evening was the Structured B2B Roundtable Meetings, organized in a sector-based format. This session enabled direct, focused discussions between AmCham member companies and U.S. delegation representatives, fostering practical business connections and exploring partnership opportunities in energy, digital transformation, defense and transport, agriculture, healthcare, finance, and investment.The event concluded with closing remarks reaffirming the shared commitment to strengthening U.S.–Azerbaijan economic ties.

AmCham Azerbaijan Leadership Participates in High-Level U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Mission

The American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan) actively participated in the high-level U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Mission to Azerbaijan, currently taking place in Baku. The mission is organized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce with the support of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Commerce and aims to strengthen bilateral economic ties between the United States and Azerbaijan.As part of the mission’s official program, an Evening Reception hosted by the Chargé d’Affaires, the Honorable Amy Carlon, was organized by the U.S. Embassy in Baku and served as a valuable platform for open dialogue, networking, and the exchange of perspectives on expanding U.S.–Azerbaijan commercial cooperation.AmCham Azerbaijan was represented at the reception by Mr. Dayanat Sadullayev, President of AmCham Azerbaijan, alongside members of the AmCham Board of Directors, including Ms. Rana Mammadova, General Manager of Coca-Cola Bottlers Azerbaijan; Mr. Babak Aghayev, Founder at Prodata; and Mr. Kanan Tabasaransky, Owner of Smart Solutions. The Chamber’s management team was also in attendance, represented by Ms. Gulnara Aslanbayli, Executive Director of AmCham Azerbaijan, and Mr. Zaur Karimov, Deputy Director.The mission’s agenda is focused on identifying new opportunities for cooperation, investment, and partnership across priority sectors of mutual interest.Key areas of discussion include energy and digital transformation, defense and transport, agriculture and healthcare, as well as finance and investment. Through high-level meetings, networking events, and sector-focused discussions, the mission aims to foster long-term collaboration, promote trade and investment, and contribute to sustainable economic growth in Azerbaijan.AmCham Azerbaijan remains committed to supporting initiatives that enhance the bilateral business environment and facilitate meaningful engagement between U.S. and Azerbaijani companies, reinforcing its role as a bridge between the two business communities.

AmCham Board Member Attended High-Level Meeting Between President Ilham Aliyev and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Delegation

On February 9,2026 the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, received a delegation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.Rana Mammadova, Board Member of AmCham Azerbaijan and General Manager of Coca-Cola Azerbaijan, also participated in the high-level meeting.The meeting was attended by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Vice President for the Middle East, Central Asia, and Türkiye, Jennifer Miel, as well as senior executives from leading global companies, including Apple, Ericsson, ExxonMobil, Meta, Visa, Boeing, Honeywell, Mastercard, Shell, bp, Marriott, and Motorola Solutions, among others.The meeting served as an important platform for discussing the expansion of dialogue and partnership between Azerbaijani and U.S. business communities, investment opportunities, and other matters of mutual economic interest.https://president.az/en/articles/view/71523

AmCham President Attends High-Level U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Mission in Azerbaijan

In the framework of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Mission to Azerbaijan, organized on behalf of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce with the support of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Commerce, a high-level bilateral business program is currently underway in Baku.As part of the mission agenda, a Delegate Welcome Networking Reception was organized, providing a platform for meaningful dialogue and business networking. Mr. Dayanat Sadullayev, President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan), participated in the reception alongside Ms. Rana Mammadov, Board Member of AmCham Azerbaijan and General Manager of Coca-Cola Bottlers Azerbaijan.The mission brings together a distinguished delegation of leading U.S. companies and stakeholders to engage with Azerbaijani counterparts and explore opportunities for enhanced economic cooperation. The program focuses on key priority sectors, including energy and digital transformation, defense and transport, agriculture and healthcare, as well as finance and investment.The Business Mission represents a significant step toward strengthening U.S.–Azerbaijan commercial ties, fostering long-term partnerships, and promoting sustainable economic growth through increased bilateral trade and investment.

Another Meeting was Held Between the State Customs Committee and AmCham Azerbaijan.

One of the key priorities of the State Customs Committee is to establish strong partnership relations with foreign trade participants, provide support to their activities, and expand customs–business dialogue in line with the development strategy of the customs system.In this context, regular meetings are organized within the framework of the “Customs–Business Forums” and other cooperation platforms to inform business entities about achievements in the customs field, newly implemented projects, and other relevant customs matters, as well as to address questions of interest.Based on these objectives, another meeting was held with the American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AmCham Azerbaijan). During the meeting, views were exchanged on customs-related issues reflected in the White Paper 2025, including the application of exemptions and incentives, transit transportation of excisable goods, the use of customs warehouses, and the determination of commodity classification codes. Participants were also informed about recently introduced tools and ongoing innovations in the customs sphere.It was noted that the extension of existing incentives or the introduction of new ones is carried out following relevant efficiency assessments. In accordance with legislation, a deposit mechanism is applied to the transit transportation of excisable goods, including alcoholic beverages and tobacco products.The legal framework for the customs warehouse special procedure has been established, and mechanisms for its practical implementation—considered one of the key achievements of recent years—have been introduced. In addition, further development of this area is envisaged within the framework of the Authorized Economic Operator (Trusted Partner) Concept adopted in 2025.The process of determining commodity classification codes has been simplified through the use of digital tools, with supportive instruments developed to assist businesses in this area.Participants were also informed about achievements in other areas, including the application of a methodology based on international standards for customs valuation, as well as the expansion of opportunities to amend customs declarations after the release of goods.The meeting concluded with an emphasis on the importance of continuing dialogue through regular meetings to closely monitor customs practices, take into account newly introduced tools and mechanisms, and discuss emerging issues related to customs operations.https://customs.gov.az/az/faydali/xeberler/2208