Foot-and-Mouth Disease Outbreak Leads to Dairy Product Shortages in Azerbaijani Markets

In rural areas, there have been numerous cases of the disease, leading to a decrease in milk yields and a temporary halt in the supply of farm products.

Market traders report that the supply of milk and the traditional dairy product gatyg has decreased several times over.

"Previously, at least 10–15 cans of milk and gatyg were brought to the market daily. Now there are only three cans of gatyg on the stall. Due to the disease, no more is being brought from the village," said one of the sellers.

Other market participants confirm a similar situation: for 10–15 days they have been unable to purchase milk, gatyg, and cheese from regular suppliers.

The foot-and-mouth outbreak has forced veterinary services to introduce quarantine measures in several districts. The disease is highly contagious, making it impossible to transport animals and milk without prior inspection and disinfection.

According to agricultural sources, in some farms, daily milk yields have decreased by 30–40%, and some of the milk has to be disposed of due to suspected infection.

"The situation is critical for small farmers who depend on daily milk sales. Even temporary restrictions lead to losses," noted one local agro-expert.

Experts warn that if the epizootic situation persists for several weeks, further increases in dairy prices are possible. Regional markets and small processors, who depend on local raw materials, remain particularly vulnerable.