A sharp increase in meat prices across Azerbaijan has sparked public concern – especially among families preparing for weddings, where lamb dishes and kebabs traditionally take center stage.
Over the past several weeks, the price of lamb has jumped from 22–23 manats to nearly 30 manats per kilo. Experts link the surge partly to an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease affecting livestock nationwide, disrupting supply and increasing farm-level losses.
For many households, however, the practical question is more immediate: will wedding celebrations become more expensive?
A survey of several banquet halls shows that, for now, prices remain stable.
One venue offering budget-friendly services said its per-guest package still stands at 28 manats. Administrators noted that although the cost of raw meat has risen, menu prices have not yet been adjusted – but changes may come later if the trend continues.
Two mid-range wedding halls, which typically offer menus starting at 55 manats, also confirmed no current price revisions. One administrator added that existing contracts will not be affected even if meat prices rise again.
Meanwhile, an upscale venue charging a minimum of 250 manats per guest said the recent price spike has had “no impact whatsoever” on its banquet pricing, stressing that premium-level packages depend more on service and décor than on fluctuations in food costs.
Still, with meat remaining a core element of Azerbaijani wedding cuisine, industry representatives acknowledge that prolonged increases in wholesale prices may eventually filter through to consumers.
