FARM SIZE AND AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY IN AZERBAIJAN:CHALLENGES AND POLICY IMPLICATIONS

This study examines the relationship between farm size and agricultural productivity in Azerbaijan, using data from the Electronic Agriculture Information System (EAIS) and Farm Data Monitoring System (FDMS).The analysis reveals that medium and large farms achieve higher wheat yields compared to smallholders, primarily due to better access to irrigation and mechanization.Regression results indicate that farm size and irrigation have statistically significant positive effects on productivity, while fertilizer use shows no significant impact.Policy implications highlight the moderate importance of optimizing existing land use through voluntary land consolidation, strategic irrigation investments, and the adoption of precision agriculture.The study contributes to the debate on optimal farm structures in transition economies and provides evidence-based recommendations for agricultural development in Azerbaijan.