At the international forum 'Industry 4.0 Forum – Industry of the Future: Technology and Human Power' discussions were held on the application of new trends in innovation and the digital economy, as well as the role of business in the transformation of the industrial sector.
On July 11, the international forum titled 'Industry 4.0 Forum – Industry of the Future: Technology and Human Power' was organized by the Center for Analysis and Coordination of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4SIM) under the Ministry of Economy.
The forum was attended by representatives of relevant state and international institutions, as well as entrepreneurs.
Speaking at the forum, Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov emphasized that, against the backdrop of global challenges and new trends, the development model implemented under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev has strengthened Azerbaijan’s socio-economic potential and ensured the sustainable growth of the national economy.
It was noted that the outcomes of the successful socio-economic development strategy implemented in our country are also reflected in the latest reports of international rating agencies. The improvement in Azerbaijan’s rankings is attributed to the diversification of the economy and the reduced dependence on oil and gas revenues. This, in turn, creates a solid foundation for the development of knowledge- and skill-based sectors and accelerates the application of Fourth Industrial Revolution elements.
It was emphasized that artificial intelligence, big data, robotics, the Internet of Things, and cloud technologies are not merely technical innovations, but also factors that fundamentally transform economic growth models. These challenges are also relevant for our country. The establishment of industrial and technology parks, the designation of the digital economy as one of the key directions in the country’s socio-economic strategy, the launch of the 4SIM in Azerbaijan, and digitalization initiatives are all part of this transformation.
It was emphasized that, in the context of the digital economy being prioritized by the state, it is particularly important for the private sector to adapt to new requirements. Alongside the simplification of administrative procedures in the field of entrepreneurship, tax incentives, subsidies, financial support to the real sector, and other measures, steps are also being taken to support technological development in the country.
The Minister of Economy noted that the development of human capital lies at the core of digital transformation. In response to this challenge, programs aimed at equipping citizens with new knowledge and skills are being implemented in our country.
In his presentation, Fariz Jafarov, Executive Director of 4SIM, spoke about the triple approach necessary for industrial transformation — business, technology, and organizational transformation — and provided information about the essence of the 'Industry 4.0 Readiness Program'.
As part of the event, Alik Karimov, Founder of 'METAK' company, Emil Hasanov, CEO of 'Azarfloat', and Alakbar Abbasli, Acting CEO of 'STP' Group of Companies — all of whom successfully completed the pilot phase of the 'Industry 4.0 Readiness Program' — delivered speeches highlighting the program’s positive impact on enterprise operations and productivity.
International expert Andres Kadoska delivered a presentation on 'How Transformation Initiatives Are Implemented Worldwide: Industry 4.0 Centers and Support Programs.' The significance of the steps taken in Azerbaijan was highlighted in the context of international experience.
During the event, a signing ceremony was held for cooperation documents between 4SIM and partners in the fields of technology, ecosystem, and human capital development. Memorandum of understanding and letters of intent were signed with technology companies such as 'Festo,' 'Koç Digital,' 'MEXT' Technology Center, 'Honeywell,' and 'SMC,' as well as with the Azerbaijan Banks Association, Azerbaijan Business Development Fund, 'Sabah City,' and academic institutions including ADNSU, ADA University, Azerbaijan University of Economics, BANM, AzTU, and BMU. These agreements will facilitate the establishment and development of cooperation with the 4SIM.
Panel discussions dedicated to global trends in the digital economy were organized at the forum. Moderated by international expert Cengiz Ulubas, the panel featured speeches by Efe Erdem, Head of the 'MEXT' Technology Center; Oktay Başer, Regional Manager of 'Honeywell'; Dr. Hamad Salem Mejegheer, Executive Director for SME Development at Qatar Development Bank; and Elchin Musayev, Deputy Head of SOCAR’s Operations Procurement and Supply Department. The participants exchanged views on regional experiences, the economic impacts of modern technology applications, and opportunities for cooperation.
Within the framework of the event, an exhibition showcasing technological solutions from local and international companies and startups was organized. More than 10 companies presented their solutions in the field of Industry 4.0. The 'Sabah City' project attracted special interest. This project is an innovation cluster initiated by the Ministry of Science and Education, planned to be launched in 2026, bringing together startup incubators, accelerators, venture funds, technology transfer offices, and advanced research centers.
At the event, artworks created by students of the 'NigArt' Art School on the topics of artificial intelligence and robotics were also exhibited, promoting interest and creativity in future technologies.
