Azerbaijan can position itself as both an energy supplier and a host for major data center companies, Fariz Jafarov, Chief Executive Officer of the Center for Analysis and Coordination of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) under the Ministry of Economy, at the Technovation Forum in Baku under the theme Resilience and Energy Transformation, Report informs.
Jafarov noted that by doing so, the country could become not just a user but a strategic player in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure: "At present, economies are measured not only by GDP but also by total data products. Countries with more data and connectivity are considered stronger in the market. The AI economy is projected to contribute about $22 trillion to the global economy by 2040. In 2025, the global AI economy was valued at $260 billion. This is no longer just a sector; it is a significant economy."
Jafarov emphasized that energy is seen as a key diversification tool for other sectors: "Based on this, Azerbaijan has developed a comprehensive digital economy strategy covering the period from 2026 to 2029 over the past three years. Through the digital transformation program, we plan to support more than 300 Azerbaijani companies and SMEs. While everyone wants to apply AI, they need a clear roadmap on where and how to start. Digital transformation involves not only the application of technology but also changes in business processes, mindset, and investments in talent and infrastructure. It is a broad roadmap."