Editing Transport in Azerbaijan (section)

==Ports and harbours==
Sea and water cargo transportation have vital importance for [[Azerbaijan]], especially in regions where road and rail connections are disputed. Azerbaijan has direct maritime connections only with other Caspian littoral states ([[Iran]], [[Kazakhstan]], Russia, and [[Turkmenistan]]). However, the [[Volga–Don Canal]] provides maritime access to the high seas. The main activity is the transport of cargo, mainly of oil and oil products. Shipping regions are the Caspian, Black, Mediterranean, and Marmara Seas. The main shipping company owes 72 ships, 37 of which are tankers (including 1 water carrier).

[[Baku International Marine Trade Port]] is the largest port on the [[Caspian Sea]]. Its ferry terminal underwent a major reconstruction supported by a US$16.2 million loan from EBRD. It is now able to handle 30 million tons of freight a year. The Caspian Sea provides vital transport links with other countries and is being used to ship oil until various pipeline projects are completed.

In 2014, Azerbaijan stated it would seek to ease transportation on the Caspian Sea due to increased demand by its neighbouring states.<ref>{{cite news|title=Joint venture of Azerbaijan and Turkey to operate transport on Caspian Sea|url=http://vestnikkavkaza.net/news/economy/64527.html|access-date=15 January 2015|date=12 January 2015}}</ref>

On June 4, 2004, the Ministry of Transportation of the Republic of Azerbaijan established the Maritime Administration. As the regulatory authority in maritime transport, its functions include participating in the formulation of state policy, regulating transport demand of goods and passengers and for other types of maritime transport services, as well as implementing state programs, concepts, and projects for the development of maritime transport.

*Ports and harbors: [[Ələt|Alat]], [[Baku]], [[Dubandi]], [[Lankaran]]

===Merchant marine===
''Total:'' 305 ships 
<br>''Ships by type:'' general cargo 40, oil tanker 48, other 217

''Country comparison to the world:'' 53<ref name=":0" />

{{See also|Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company}}