Rashad Bayramov: “At the ‘SME Bazaar’ sales fair, fresh and high-quality local products are sold directly by the producers at prices 20-30% lower than in other markets.”
A new support initiative the ‘SME Bazaar’ sales fair has recently been launched to help expand entrepreneurs’ sales opportunities. The fair features agricultural and food products from nearly 50 farmers and producers. Organized under the slogan “Come, buy from the producer,” the fair offers fresh and high-quality agricultural and food products grown in Absheron and other regions of the country at affordable prices. The ‘SME Bazaar’ will operate daily during Novruz and Ramadan holidays and on weekends during other periods. In an interview with "Iki Sahil," Rashad Bayramov, Head of Department at the Small and Medium Business Development Agency (KOBIA), provided insights about the fair.
- Mr. Rashad, what is the purpose of the ‘SME Bazaar’ sales fair?
- The purpose of the ‘SME Bazaar’ sales fair is to support the sale of agricultural and packaged food products produced by entrepreneurs and farmers. Currently, the fair, which operates with the support of the Small and Medium Business Development Agency (KOBIA), features products from nearly 50 farmers and producers. Located in Baku’s Binagadi district (at the intersection of Koroglu and Ajami Nakhchivani streets), the fair offers fresh and high-quality local products sold directly by the producers themselves. A wide range of products is available at the fair, including fruits and vegetables, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, dried fruits, sweets, canned goods, and more.
- What is the advantage of this Bazaar to the entrepreneurs?
- Firstly, the farmers and manufacturer who sell their products in the Bazaar, do not pay for rental fee. Secondly, the consumer buys the product directly from the manufacturer himself. At the same time, via this Bazaar entrepreneurs get the opportunities such as increasing their customer bases, expanding their business relations and building new cooperation. Entrepreneurs establish closer connections with customers, allowing them to better understand their needs and offer personalized approaches. This also enhances customer satisfaction.
- What benefits do buyers gain from purchasing products directly from the manufacturer?
- Purchasing products directly from the manufacturer allows customer to buy them with more profitable prices. By purchasing products directly from the manufacturer, buyers have the opportunity to establish closer contact with the producer. This also allows them to communicate their specific requirements directly to the manufacturer.
- How much cheaper are the products sold at the "SME Bazaar" compared to other markets?
- Prices of the products are 20-30% cheaper compared to the other markets as of, small and medium entrepreneurs do not have additional costs, including bringing the product directly from the place of production to the place of sale in this Bazaar.
- And will “SME Bazaar” operate forever?
- Yes, the Bazaar is intended to be a weekend market. However, considering the increased demand for agricultural and other food products during the upcoming Novruz and Ramadan holidays, the Bazaar will operate daily. After the holidays, the Bazaar will return to being open only on weekends.
- Can entrepreneurs from all regions of the country sell their products at the “SME Bazaar”? Where should they apply, and how is the selection process carried out?
- Currently, products from various regions of the country, including Baku, Khachmaz, Zagatala, Shamkir, Hajigabul, and others, are available at the SME Bazaar. Entrepreneurs interested in participating were invited to apply through announcements published by KOBIA in February on the agency’s website, social media platforms, and media outlets. A significant number of applications were received, and most were approved, granting entrepreneurs free selling spaces at the market.
The selection criteria are simple: The products must be locally produced, they must be sold directly by the producer, products must be fresh and of high quality and etc.
Farmers and producers who wish to sell their products at the market can still submit their applications. The application process is very simple. Entrepreneurs interested in selling their products at the SME Bazaar can apply online by visiting the relevant section on the KOBIA website.
- Mr. Rashad, is there a plan to increase the number of "SME Bazaars" in the future?
This market operates within the framework of state support mechanisms. In the future, considering the needs of entrepreneurs and, most importantly, consumers, additional SME Bazaar sales fairs may be established in other locations.
