BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 21. EU recommends
Azerbaijan to construct a direct passenger railway line to the Alat
Free Economic Zone (AFEZ) to improve its accessibility for workers
and investors, reads the “Trade Study Report – Trade Sector
Development in Azerbaijan: Policies, Constraints and
Opportunities”, issued by the EU.


The report’s authors point out that the establishment of AFEZ is
a positive and strategic step for Azerbaijan’s economic
development, attracting investment, and creating new business
opportunities.


At the same time, as the report says, it is important to take
into account a number of key factors to fully realize AFEZ’s
potential and ensure its long-term competitiveness.







“One of these factors is ensuring the accessibility of the zone
for investors, workers, and businesses. International experience
shows that, alongside a favourable geographical location, effective
connectivity with major urban centres and transport hubs plays an
important role in shaping the competitiveness of special economic
zones. Alat is located approximately 65 km from the city centre and
currently has no direct metro, ferry, or suburban passenger rail
connection with central Baku. However, the successful operation and
long-term development of AFEZ also depend significantly on ensuring
the accessibility of the zone for investors, workers, and
businesses. To this end, establishing a connection with Absheron
Railway Station, which is only 7 km from Baku Central Railway
Station, and then developing the existing railway connection from
Heybat to Alat for passenger transportation could significantly
improve Alat’s accessibility,” reads the report.


The Alat Free Economic Zone (AFEZ), established by the
Presidential Decree dated May 22, 2020, is located adjacent to the
Baku International Sea Trade Port and at the intersection of
international transport corridors. Alat Free Economic Zone gives
preference to investors engaged in high-value-added and
export-oriented manufacturing, using innovative technologies and
approaches to work, in accordance with best international
standards.