News archive
News archive
-
05.05.2026 Beyond oil: How Azerbaijan became a regional digital powerhouse
Azerbaijan has pursued a consistent and forward-looking policy to develop information and communication technologies (ICT) as a central pillar of its socio-economic transformation, particularly since the early 2000s. The country’s approach has
Beyond oil: How Azerbaijan became a regional digital powerhouse
Azerbaijan has pursued a consistent and forward-looking policy to develop information and communication technologies (ICT) as a central pillar of its socio-economic transformation, particularly since the early 2000s.
The country’s approach has combined long-term state strategies, institutional reforms, infrastructure investment, and international cooperation, all aimed at building a competitive digital economy and modern public administration. One of the earliest milestones in this process was the adoption of the “National Strategy on Information and Communication Technologies for the Development of the Republic of Azerbaijan (2003–2012),” which laid the foundation for digital transformation across multiple sectors. This strategy identified ICT as a driver of economic diversification beyond oil and gas and emphasized the importance of building a knowledge-based society. It also initiated the creation of electronic government systems and encouraged the expansion of telecommunications infrastructure throughout the country.
A major innovation in Azerbaijan’s public service delivery has been the establishment of the ASAN service centers, launched in 2012. These centers, along with related digital platforms such as ASAN Visa, ASAN Pay, and Asan Imza (mobile digital signature), have significantly simplified administrative procedures and improved the quality of public services. Asan Imza, in particular, represents a breakthrough in mobile-based digital identity, allowing users to sign documents and access services securely via their mobile phones. This integrated model has gained international recognition and has been studied as the best practice in public sector innovation.
Detailed info about the article: https://news.az/news/beyond-oil-how-azerbaijan-became-a-regional-digital-powerhouse
-
02.03.2026 GSMA Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2026
B.EST Solutions showcases next-generation Quantum-Ready “Asan Imza” Mobile ID at MWC Barcelona 2026 B.EST Solutions participated in GSMA Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona 2026, held in Barcelona, Spain, from 2 to 5
GSMA Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2026
B.EST Solutions showcases next-generation Quantum-Ready “Asan Imza” Mobile ID at MWC Barcelona 2026
B.EST Solutions participated in GSMA Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona 2026, held in Barcelona, Spain, from 2 to 5 March 2026. The company has been participating in the congress since 2012.
At one of the world’s leading technology and connectivity events, B.EST Solutions presented the next generation of quantum-ready “Asan Imza” (Mobile ID), an innovative eSIM-based qualified digital signature designed to support secure, scalable, and future-ready digital ecosystems.
As the national operator of Asan Imza, B.EST Solutions continues to develop trusted digital identity technologies that support governments, businesses, and citizens. The solution presented at MWC 2026 reflects the company’s ongoing focus on strong security, user convenience, and the future of digital trust services.
Building on its trusted portfolio of digital identity solutions, the new eSIM-based “Asan Imza” Mobile ID offers a modern and practical approach to secure authentication and digital signing. It helps reduce onboarding complexity and removes the need for additional hardware. Designed for today’s fast-changing digital environment, the solution responds to the growing need for more flexible, accessible, and sustainable identity technologies.
The company was represented at the event by Daniil Gussev, CSO; Fuad Malikov, Head of Project Operations; and Elvin Pashayev, DevOps Engineer, who engaged with global technology leaders, partners, and public-sector stakeholders throughout the congress.
During the conference, B.EST Solutions representatives held a number of high-level meetings and presented the Asan Imza solution in high level meetings. These meetings created a valuable opportunity to present Azerbaijan’s experience in digital identity, exchange ideas, and explore potential international cooperation in secure digital services.
B.EST Solutions’ participation in MWC Barcelona 2026 once again highlights the company’s commitment to advancing digital identity and strengthening Azerbaijan’s position in the global GovTech and trust services landscape.
-
29.01.2026 A press conference was held at the Ministry of Economy of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic regarding the results of 2025
In 2025, tax revenues to the budget of the Autonomous Republic through the State Tax Service amounted to nearly AZN 260.4 million, which is 14.9% more compared to 2024. This information was
A press conference was held at the Ministry of Economy of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic regarding the results of 2025
In 2025, tax revenues to the budget of the Autonomous Republic through the State Tax Service amounted to nearly AZN 260.4 million, which is 14.9% more compared to 2024.
This information was shared by Kazim Huseynaliyev, Minister of Economy of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, during a press conference dedicated to the results of the previous year.
It was noted that tax revenues from the non-state sector amounted to AZN 185.9 million, showing a 21.6% increase compared to 2024.
In 2025, revenues from compulsory state social insurance increased by 10.2% compared to 2024 and reached AZN 178.5 million. Revenues from compulsory health insurance increased by 9.5% and amounted to AZN 31.7 million, while revenues to the unemployment insurance fund increased by 5.1% and reached nearly AZN 4.7 million.
-
25.01.2026 Azerbaijan is Represented at High-Level GovTech Panel During World Economic Forum Week in Davos
During the World Economic Forum week in Davos, an important high-level panel discussion titled “GovTech at Scale: Governing the AI Era, Not Just Digitizing the Past” took place at the House of
Azerbaijan is Represented at High-Level GovTech Panel During World Economic Forum Week in Davos
During the World Economic Forum week in Davos, an important high-level panel discussion titled “GovTech at Scale: Governing the AI Era, Not Just Digitizing the Past” took place at the House of Collaboration, bringing together political leaders and digital transformation experts from Europe and Eurasia.
The panel was moderated by Jana Krimpe, Founder and CEO of B.EST Solutions and Chairwoman of Femmes Digitales – “Supporting Women in Tech” Public Union and member of 100 Women of Davos, who represented both Estonia and Azerbaijan on the international stage.
While many discussions in Davos focus on innovation and emerging technologies, this panel addressed a more complex and critical question: how governments can successfully implement digital and AI-driven systems at national scale under real political, legal, and institutional conditions. The panel emphasized that modern GovTech is no longer just about digitising public services. Instead, it is about governing trust, data, artificial intelligence, and institutions in a way that is secure, resilient, and scalable across political cycles.
The discussion featured senior leaders with hands-on national-level experience:
• Taavi Rõivas, Chairman of Auve Tech and former Prime Minister of Estonia, shared insights from Estonia’s globally recognized digital state model.
• Eugen Osmochescu, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development and Digitalisation of the Republic of Moldova, discussed digital reforms under real-world political and institutional pressure.
• Fariz Jafarov, Executive Director of 4SİM / C4IR Azerbaijan (World Economic Forum), presented Azerbaijan’s forward-looking approach to AI governance and Industry 4.0 at state level.
Key Topics Explored:
- Political and institutional decisions required to scale GovTech nationally
- Governing AI proactively rather than reactively
- The central role of trust and institutions alongside technology
- Digital sovereignty and what governments must retain under state control
As moderator, Jana Krimpe highlighted Azerbaijan’s growing role in global AI governance discussions, noting the country’s active participation in shaping responsible and future-oriented digital policy frameworks through platforms such as C4IR Azerbaijan. A special highlight of the session was the strong message of cross-country collaboration, demonstrating how Estonia’s practical digital governance experience, Moldova’s reform journey, and Azerbaijan’s AI leadership can be transformed into shared international progress.
The main conclusion of the panel was clear: GovTech at scale is not a technology story; it is a governance story.
Governments that aim to succeed in the AI era must move beyond digitising legacy processes and instead govern the future with clarity, courage, and trust.
Davos, Switzerland
-
24.11.2025 “Asan İmza” is now available in the Azercell app!
New feature offers one-tap access to “Asan İmza” data Azercell Telecom continues to enhance its range of digital solutions by integrating the “Asan İmza” service into the Azercell mobile app. Through this
“Asan İmza” is now available in the Azercell app!
New feature offers one-tap access to “Asan İmza” data
Azercell Telecom continues to enhance its range of digital solutions by integrating the “Asan İmza” service into the Azercell mobile app. Through this implementation, users can easily access key details of their “Asan İmza” service, including the expiration date, status, service type, and monthly renewal period of their enhanced mobile electronic signature.
At the initial stage, this feature is available to prepaid (SimSim) subscribers and will be extended to postpaid customers in the near future.
The update supports Azercell’s efforts to simplify the digital experience and provide wider access to innovative, user-friendly solutions.
-
24.09.2025 New Generation eSIM-based Asan Imza showcased as a leading innovation at BOE Asia 2025
The 26th ITCN Asia International Conference and Exhibition commenced on September 24–26, 2025, in Karachi, Pakistan. This year’s main topics centered on digital transformation, innovation in fintech, cybersecurity, and the future of
New Generation eSIM-based Asan Imza showcased as a leading innovation at BOE Asia 2025
The 26th ITCN Asia International Conference and Exhibition commenced on September 24–26, 2025, in Karachi, Pakistan. This year’s main topics centered on digital transformation, innovation in fintech, cybersecurity, and the future of connected ecosystems. The event brought together global technology leaders, government officials, and business innovators to shape strategies for advancing inclusive and sustainable digital economies.
One of the highlight sessions of The Best of Entrepreneurship (BOE) Asia Series — a strategic platform — was “Panel 2: On Leadership”, featuring Jana Krimpe, CEO and Founder of B.EST Solutions, the national operator of the “Asan Imza” qualified mobile digital signature. She shared the stage with Faisal Jamil, Managing Director of LMKR (Pakistan) and Syed Ahmad, Founder & CEO of DPL, moderated by Natavan Mammadova, Lead of Women Economic Empowerment at ICCD. The discussion focused on leadership, innovation, and building resilient digital ecosystems in today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape.
In her remarks, Mrs. Krimpe presented the new generation eSIM-based Asan Imza (Mobile ID) solution, enhanced with cloud technology and post-quantum crypto-agile algorithms. Developed in partnership with the State Tax Service of Azerbaijan and mobile operators Azercell, Bakcell, and Nar, the solution represents the future of secure mobile identity.
She stated: “The eSIM innovation is a significant step forward — not only for technology but also for accessibility and sustainability. Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIMs are built directly into devices, eliminating the need for plastic, packaging, and logistics. This makes activation easier, ensures higher security, and reduces environmental impact. With the new generation eSIM Asan Imza, we are enabling citizens to confirm their identity securely, access more than 2000 e-services, and provide legally binding digital signatures effortlessly.”
Mrs. Krimpe also highlighted that Asan Imza has already processed over 500 million digital transactions, underpinning 95% of Azerbaijan’s e-government services. The solution has saved hundreds of thousands of trees by replacing paper-based processes, proving that digital identity can accelerate economic growth, strengthen governance, and contribute to environmental sustainability. She also strengthened lessons from Estonia’s and Azerbaijan’s e-government journey: “The most important lesson is that political will and trust are more important than technology itself. Digital identity must be treated as a national infrastructure, like roads or electricity. Start small, deliver value with everyday services such as taxes and banking, and then expand step by step. That was Estonia’s start-up nation approach, and it is the model we followed to build Asan Imza.” The panelist also stressed the importance of transparency and accountability: “Trust is earned through open communication. Estonia’s famous ROCA ID card vulnerability showed that when governments respond with transparency, engage experts, and fix the issue openly, crises can be transformed into trust-building opportunities. Citizens must always see who uses their data, and governments must never hide problems.” By addressing the question of scaling solutions internationally, Mrs. Krimpe noted: “Trust isn’t something you can buy with marketing; it must be proven. In Azerbaijan, we processed hundreds of millions of secure transactions before ever exporting the model. Compliance with international standards and recognition from global organizations speak louder than words. We never position ourselves as just a vendor. Mobile ID is critical national infrastructure, so we act as a partner. That means designing systems where we, as a provider, never access personal data, and handing over competence to local institutions so they can run and grow independently. We don’t just export code; we share a proven model of collaboration, resilience, and 15 years of daily operational expertise.”
As the Founder of “Femmes Digitales” – “Supporting Women in Tech” Public Union, Mrs. Krimpe emphasized the unique qualities women bring to technology leadership: “Women bring collaboration, empathy, and resilience. They don’t just build apps or systems; they build ecosystems, inclusive spaces where every voice is heard and no one is left behind. Women naturally think about the next generation, not just the next quarter. That focus on sustainability makes their leadership transformative.”
The ITCN Asia 2025 conference gathered regional and international leaders, including H.E. Eng. Sami Smeirat, Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship of Jordan, and H.E. Senator Khalil Al-Haj Tawfiq, Chairman of the Jordan Chamber of Commerce, who stressed the role of technology as a core enabler of sustainable economic development. Their insights, along with contributions from global entrepreneurs and policymakers, underlined the importance of innovation and leadership in driving digital transformation across borders.
The three-day program provided a dynamic platform for fostering new partnerships between Azerbaijan and Pakistan, and the wider region, further advancing the mission of building secure, trusted, and inclusive digital societies powered by next-generation solutions.
-
20.06.2025 The Number of Services Provided at Taxpayer Service Centers in Nakhchivan Increased by 27%
During the period of January to May this year, a total of 19,983 individuals were received at the Taxpayer Service Centers of the State Tax Service under the Ministry of Economy of
The Number of Services Provided at Taxpayer Service Centers in Nakhchivan Increased by 27%
During the period of January to May this year, a total of 19,983 individuals were received at the Taxpayer Service Centers of the State Tax Service under the Ministry of Economy of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic.
In these centers, 27,120 services were provided related to tax legislation and administration, tax accounting, registration, declarations, current tax payments, and other matters. This represents an increase of 26.8% compared to the same period of the previous year.
86% of the total services were made up of 9 main service types (excluding verbal inquiries and services related to document issuance), including: issuance of the “Asan Imza” certificate;Submission of declarations (reports) and certificates on the calculation of current tax payments to tax authorities; issuance of receipts for payment of fixed amounts under simplified tax, mandatory state social insurance, and compulsory medical insurance fees; Registration and re-registration of individuals; changes to taxpayer registration data; issuance of certificates to taxpayers; restoration of taxpayer activity; deregistration of individuals; Operations carried out in the electronic information system for employment contracts, etc.
Reference link: https://report.az/biznes-xeberleri/naxcivanda-vergi-odeyicilerine-xidmet-merkezlerinde-gosterilen-xidmetlerin-sayi-27-artib/ -
18.06.2025 B.EST Solutions Showcases Azerbaijan’s mResidency Innovation at IOTA General Assembly Baku
At the 29th General Assembly of the Intra-European Organisation of Tax Administrations (IOTA), held in Baku on June 18, B.EST Solutions unveiled its groundbreaking mResidency project — a next-generation platform built on
B.EST Solutions Showcases Azerbaijan’s mResidency Innovation at IOTA General Assembly Baku
At the 29th General Assembly of the Intra-European Organisation of Tax Administrations (IOTA), held in Baku on June 18, B.EST Solutions unveiled its groundbreaking mResidency project — a next-generation platform built on Asan Imza, Azerbaijan’s secure qualified mobile digital signature technology.
The event brought together representatives from over 40 IOTA member countries, alongside international institutions and digital transformation experts. Within the innovation track, B.EST Solutions highlighted how mResidency empowers foreign entrepreneurs and investors to access Azerbaijan’s e-government services remotely and securely, eliminating the need for physical presence and reducing barriers to entry for global business.
The presentation was delivered by Fuad Malikov, Head of Project Operations at B.EST Solutions, to Mr. Orkhan Nazarli, Head of the State Tax Service under the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Mr. Malikov emphasized that mResidency is not only a leap forward in digital identity but a strategic tool to boost Azerbaijan’s attractiveness as a destination for international investment and cross-border operations.
Azerbaijan’s State Tax Service plays a pivotal role in creating a dynamic, transparent, and investor-friendly business environment. Through a series of innovations — including full digitalization of taxpayer services, AI-driven decision support tools, streamlined online business registration, and integrated payment platforms — the Tax Service has become a central actor in simplifying procedures for both local entrepreneurs and global investors.
These reforms have made it easier than ever to start and manage a business remotely, aligning Azerbaijan with global best practices and reinforcing its vision of becoming a leading hub for digital economy and smart governance.
The Asan Imza stand stood alongside global tech giants like Microsoft, Mastercard, NetCompany, Fast Enterprises, and others, underscoring Azerbaijan’s growing prominence in secure mobile identity and digital governance.
B.EST Solutions, as the national operator of Asan Imza, reaffirms its commitment to advancing a secure, inclusive, and internationally connected digital society in line with the country’s long-term innovation strategy.
🔹 mResidency is implemented under a Presidential Decree as part of Azerbaijan’s strategic digital development agenda, under the leadership of the Center for Communication and Analysis of Economic Reforms — a key body driving national innovation and global competitiveness.
Throughout June 18–19, the IOTA technical session featured presentations and discussions on topics such as digital transformation in tax administration, the role of artificial intelligence, taxpayer service improvements, and cross-border collaboration. Member states participated in an innovation exhibition, where they showcase advanced solutions in areas like risk management, HR, communication, and digital infrastructure.
-
21.05.2025 Expressbank announces the launch of its new mobile application, “Express Business”
Expressbank is pleased to announce the launch of its new mobile application, “Express Business,” offering a more modern and flexible banking experience for business clients. With this application, entrepreneurs and company representatives can now manage
Expressbank announces the launch of its new mobile application, “Express Business”
Expressbank is pleased to announce the launch of its new mobile application, “Express Business,” offering a more modern and flexible banking experience for business clients.
With this application, entrepreneurs and company representatives can now manage their financial operations more conveniently and securely — without leaving the office or visiting a bank.
What does the new app offer?
Through the Express Business mobile application, clients will be able to:- Log in securely using “Asan Imza” – a qualified mobile digital signature
- Quickly switch between accounts for clients managing multiple companies
- Monitor their financial status at any time
- Execute intra-bank, inter-account, and domestic transfers
- Fully control payments and transfers
- Sign documents via mobile device or web platform
- View card and account details, access statements, block or unblock cards
This innovation provides business owners with time savings, operational control, and greater flexibility. The app is available on both iOS and Android platforms and is completely free to use.
Reference link: https://www.expressbank.az/en/news/biznes-musterileri-ucun-tetbiqini-istifadeye-verildi -
16.05.2025 Azerbaijan Railways Links to National Digital ID System for Enhanced Access
Azerbaijan Railways CJSC has integrated its e-services portal with digital.login, Azerbaijan’s unified national digital identification system. The development marks an important step in the country’s ongoing digital transformation, improving the accessibility and security
Azerbaijan Railways Links to National Digital ID System for Enhanced Access
Azerbaijan Railways CJSC has integrated its e-services portal with digital.login, Azerbaijan’s unified national digital identification system.
The development marks an important step in the country’s ongoing digital transformation, improving the accessibility and security of railway services for both citizens and businesses.
The integration was announced via AZCON Holding and reflects close collaboration with the Innovation and Digital Development Agency, which plays a central role in implementing Azerbaijan’s digital governance strategy. Through the updated system, users can now log into the Azerbaijan Railways portal using a variety of state-supported authentication methods, including “Asan Imza” – a qualified mobile digital signature.
According to official communications from the railway operator, the integration is designed to streamline the user experience. Existing users are not required to re-register, removing a common barrier to adoption. The platform offers enhanced login security through verified digital ID credentials, safeguarding access to sensitive services such as ticket purchasing, cargo tracking, and account management.
Reference link: https://idtechwire.com/azerbaijan-railways-links-to-national-digital-id-system-for-enhanced-access/