President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan signed a decree on August 25 to develop sericulture and carpetmaking, two traditional handicraft sectors deeply rooted in the country's cultural heritage. The decree, published on the presidential website, emphasizes the importance of these sectors in diversifying the non-oil and gas economy, increasing regional employment, and expanding local production and exports. It highlights the need for improved management, coordination across the production chain, and a stronger raw material base to ensure sustainable growth. The reorganization involves merging Azeripek Open Joint Stock Company into Azerkhalcha Open Joint Stock Company, creating a single commercial entity responsible for overseeing both sericulture and carpetmaking. This includes production, processing, sales, and export activities, as well as preserving national handicraft traditions. The Gakh District Breeding Sericulture Station will be transferred to Azerkhalcha to organize breeding activities. The privatization of Azeripek's state-owned shares has been suspended. The decree outlines a management structure with a three-member board and specifies the roles of the President, Cabinet of Ministers, and Ministry of Economy in overseeing the company. The Cabinet of Ministers is tasked with improving regulations within three months and expanding domestic processing of fresh cocoons within six months. The Ministry of Economy must propose the company's authorized capital within two months. Additionally, Azerkhalcha will collaborate with various agencies to promote carpetmaking and sericulture both domestically and internationally, including branding and export promotion. The Agricultural Subsidy Council will review subsidies for fresh cocoons and mulberry orchards, while the Ministry of Finance will allocate necessary funds.