Document Type : thesis
Authors
1
PhD student in Agricultural Development, Aras, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
2
Department of Rural Extension and Development, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
3
Associate Professor in the Department of Rural Extension and Development at the University of Tabriz, Tabriz,Iran
10.22034/gahr.2025.537842.2602
Abstract
Given the vital role of agricultural exports in economic development and increasing provincial foreign exchange revenues, identifying target markets and products with comparative advantage is of high importance. Prioritizing markets and products can help reduce trade risks, optimize resources, and enhance export competitiveness. This study aims to identify and prioritize the target export markets of East Azerbaijan’s agricultural products, focusing on those with high comparative advantage. To achieve this, quantitative indicators—including average imports, share of national and global imports, import advantage, and import growth rate—along with qualitative factors such as political, economic, infrastructural, and legal conditions, were used to rank markets in a multidimensional manner. Results indicate that grapes, onions, medicinal plants, bell peppers, potatoes, and apricots have the highest export advantage and significant shares in international markets. Primary and secondary markets were identified for each product; for example, grape markets include the USA, Germany, and the UK as primary, and Russia, the Netherlands, France, and Spain as secondary. Apricots, onions, potatoes, bell peppers, and medicinal plants also have clearly defined target markets based on import volume, market growth, and competitive advantage. Eggplant, cucumber, tomato, and apple, due to medium to low comparative advantage, were placed at lower priority. Operational recommendations include focusing on production and standardization of high-advantage products, developing export infrastructure and logistics, improving packaging and branding, managing market regulations and standards, utilizing smart decision-making tools, promoting processing and value addition, and strengthening international cooperation and economic diplomacy. This multidimensional strategy, integrating quantitative and qualitative indicators and expert opinions, can enhance the province’s share in global markets and ensure sustainable export of East Azerbaijan’s agricultural products.
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