In April 2024, Azerbaijan saw a notable rise in its natural gas exports to Turkiye, marking a crucial moment in their economic relationship. According to recent reports from the Turkish energy market Regulation Authority (EPDK), Azerbaijan’s natural gas exports to Turkiye increased by 12.02% compared to the same period last year. This growth highlights Azerbaijan’s expanding role as a key supplier of natural gas to Turkiye amidst changes in the global energy landscape.
During April 2024, Azerbaijan exported 1.001 billion cubic meters of natural gas to Turkiye, up from 893.36 million cubic meters in April 2023, firmly establishing Azerbaijan as Turkiye’s largest natural gas exporter during this period. This rise underscores Azerbaijan’s commitment to strengthening energy cooperation with Turkiye, leveraging its strategic location and substantial natural gas reserves.
In contrast, traditional suppliers Iran and Russia faced challenges. Iran’s exports to Turkiye dropped sharply by 37.25% to about 543.99 million cubic meters, reflecting potential geopolitical and economic pressures. Similarly, Russian exports declined by 76.01%, providing only 413.24 million cubic meters compared to 1.524 billion cubic meters in April 2023. These declines highlight Turkiye’s strategy to diversify its natural gas sources towards more stable partners.
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Turkiye’s total gas imports in April 2024 decreased significantly by 39.85% to approximately 2.395 billion cubic meters, down from 3.982 billion cubic meters in April 2023. This reduction underscores Turkiye’s efforts to manage and diversify its energy supply amid global uncertainties and price fluctuations.
Specifically, pipeline gas imports, including Azerbaijani supplies via the Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP), decreased by 40.38% to 1.958 billion cubic meters. Likewise, liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports decreased by 37.37% to 437.25 million cubic meters. These figures demonstrate Turkiye’s flexibility in balancing its energy mix and reducing reliance on any single source.
The growing economic ties between Azerbaijan and Turkiye in the natural gas sector signal deeper strategic alignment and mutual economic benefits. Azerbaijan’s increased role as Turkiye’s primary natural gas supplier reinforces bilateral relations based on trust, reliability, and shared economic interests. Moreover, Azerbaijan’s natural gas exports contribute to Turkiye’s energy security while supporting environmental goals amidst global energy transitions.
Looking ahead, the trajectory of Azerbaijan-Turkiye natural gas trade will continue to evolve, influenced by geopolitical shifts, market dynamics, and technological advancements. As both countries explore further collaboration in infrastructure and renewable energy, their strategic partnership is set to strengthen, promoting stability and economic growth across the region.
Azerbaijan’s significant rise in natural gas exports to Turkiye in April 2024 underscores their economic interdependence and sets a positive precedent for future cooperation in energy and beyond.