A public discussion was held on the legislative requirements in the relevant field, the operations of trade networks, the relationships between these networks and manufacturers, as well as the opportunities for SMEs. Business owners' proposals were also listened to during the event.
The public discussion on the topic "The Role of Trade Networks in the Market Economy: Opportunities and Perspectives" was organized by the Public Council under the Small and Medium Business Development Agency (KOBIA), with the support of the Anti-Monopoly and Consumer Market Control State Agency under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the National Confederation of Entrepreneurs (Employers) Organizations of Azerbaijan (ASK). The event took place at the "Baku SMB House" and was attended by representatives of relevant state agencies, business associations, and nearly 40 representatives from major trade networks.
Samir Abdullayev, Chairman of the Public Council under KOBIA, noted that the purpose of the public discussion was to address legislative requirements in the relevant sector, the operations of trade networks, relations between these networks and entrepreneurs, as well as to expand access for SMEs to large trade networks within the framework of government-entrepreneur cooperation.
In his speech, Elnur Baghirov, Chairman of the Anti-Monopoly and Consumer Market Control State Agency, discussed the positive effects of developing trade networks on forming a healthy and fair competitive environment, the overall dynamics of the economy, the expansion of the production sector, and the improvement of social welfare. He stated that the Agency regularly conducts awareness-raising activities and engages in direct dialogues with market participants to support and promote transparent trade relations. Baghirov emphasized the importance of adhering to consumer rights and competition legislation in the operations of trade networks, and highlighted the significance of implementing preventive control mechanisms and strengthening cooperation with stakeholders.
Orkhan Mammadov, Chairman of the Board of KOBIA, discussed the role of trade networks in the economy, especially in expanding the introduction and sales opportunities of SME products. He noted that the government’s support measures in this area have increased SMEs’ access to markets. Several support mechanisms for SMEs’ access to trade networks are provided by KOBIA. One of the main goals of today’s public discussion was to discuss how to further facilitate SMEs' access to large trade networks. Mammadov also stressed the importance of improving cooperation methods between trade networks and SMEs, increasing logistics capabilities in regions, optimizing supply chains, supporting digital trade platforms, and integrating SMEs into these platforms. He emphasized the need for awareness-raising activities on trade culture, quality standards, and transparency. SMEs, on the other hand, should assess how their products align with trade network requirements, focus on branding, packaging, e-commerce, and customer satisfaction, and be proactive in collaborating with markets and large sales points. This will contribute to expanding the relationship between SMEs and trade networks.
Mammad Musayev, President of ASK, emphasized the important role trade networks play not only in product sales but also in price formation, expanding product variety, and understanding consumer demands. He noted that such events are crucial for examining the state of trade networks and studying the difficulties faced by businesses in this field.
During the event, the challenges and proposals of business entities were discussed, an exchange of views took place, and the entrepreneurs' questions were answered.
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