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 the field of innovation and the digital economy, and the role of business in the transformation of the industrial sector.

On July 11, the Center for the Analysis and Coordination of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) under the Ministry of Economy held the international forum titled “Industry 4.0 Forum – Industry of the Future: Technology and Human Power.”

The forum was attended by representatives of relevant state and international organizations, as well as entrepreneurs.

Speaking at the forum, Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov emphasized that the development model implemented under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev has strengthened Azerbaijan’s socio-economic potential and ensured the sustainable development of its economy in the context of global challenges and new trends.

It was stated that the results of Azerbaijan’s successful socio-economic development strategy are also reflected in the latest reports of international rating agencies. The improvement in Azerbaijan’s positions is related to the diversification of the economy and the reduction of dependence on oil and gas revenues. This, in turn, creates a strong foundation for the development of knowledge- and skill-based sectors and accelerates the implementation of elements of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

It was noted that artificial intelligence, big data, robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), and cloud technologies are not only technical innovations but also factors that completely reshape economic growth models. These challenges are also relevant for our country. The creation of industrial and technology parks, the designation of the digital economy as a key area in the national socio-economic strategy, the opening of the C4IR Azerbaijan Center, and digitalization initiatives are all part of this transformation.

It was emphasized that, given the government's prioritization of the digital economy, the adaptation of the private sector to new requirements is particularly important. Alongside the simplification of administrative procedures for entrepreneurship, tax incentives, subsidies, financial support for the real sector, and other measures, steps are also being taken to support technological development.

The Minister of Economy noted that the development of human capital lies at the heart of digital transformation. In our country, programs are being implemented to provide citizens with new knowledge and skills in response to this challenge.

In his presentation, Fariz Jafarov, Executive Director of C4IR, spoke about a threefold approach necessary for industrial transformation—business, technology, and organizational transformation—and provided information about the “Industry 4.0 Readiness Program.”

As part of the event, Alik Karimov, founder of METAK, Emil Hasanov, CEO of Azerfloat, and Alekber Abbasli, Acting CEO of the STP Group of Companies, who successfully completed the pilot phase of the “Industry 4.0 Readiness Program,” shared their thoughts on the positive impacts of the program on enterprise operations and productivity.

International expert Andres Kadoska gave a presentation titled “How Are Transformation Initiatives Implemented Globally? Industry 4.0 Centers and Support Programs.” The importance of the steps taken in Azerbaijan in the context of international experiences was highlighted.

During the event, a signing ceremony was held for cooperation agreements between C4IR and partners in the fields of technology, ecosystem development, and human capital. In addition to technology companies such as Festo, Koç Digital, MEXT Technology Center, Honeywell, and SMC, memorandums of understanding and letters of intent were signed with the Association of Banks of Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijan Business Development Fund, Sabah City, as well as universities such as ADNSU, ADA, UNEC, BANM, AzTU, and BMU. These documents will serve to establish and strengthen cooperation with C4IR.

Panel discussions dedicated to global trends in the digital economy were also held at the forum. Moderated by international expert Cengiz Ulubaş, the panel included Efe Erdem, Head of the MEXT Technology Center; Oktay Başer, Regional Manager of Honeywell; Dr. Hamad Salem Mejegheer, Executive Director for SME Development at the Qatar Development Bank; and Elchin Musayev, Deputy Head of the Operations Procurement and Supply Department of SOCAR. They exchanged views on regional experiences, the economic impact of applying modern technologies, and opportunities for collaboration.

An exhibition showcasing the technological solutions of local and international companies and startups was organized within the event. More than 10 companies presented their solutions in the field of Industry 4.0. The “Sabah City” project attracted particular interest. Initiated by the Ministry of Science and Education and scheduled to launch in 2026, the project is an innovation cluster that will bring together startup incubators, accelerators, venture funds, technology transfer offices, and advanced research centers.

Additionally, artworks prepared by students of the “NigArt” Art School on the themes of artificial intelligence and robotics were exhibited at the event, promoting interest and creativity in the technologies of the future.