Azerbaijan deploys ACCA’s public sector certificate within national professional accountant certification framework

ACCA's Certificate in International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) has been formally recognised in Azerbaijan following amendments to the country's professional accountant certification framework.

The inclusion of ACCA's IPSAS within Azerbaijan's national certification framework represents an important milestone in the development of the accountancy profession in Azerbaijan and supports the continued strengthening of the professional knowledge, skills and capacity of public sector finance professionals.

Under Resolution No. 217 of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan, dated 17 July 2026, candidates who hold ACCA's (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) Certificate in International Public Sector Accounting Standards and apply for a Level I or Level II professional accountant certificate in the public sector are exempt from the first stage of the relevant examination.

The amendments were introduced to the existing framework for issuing Professional Accountant Certificates, established under Resolution No. 237 of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan, dated 22 May 2019.

Gaukhar Ashirbekova, Public Affairs Lead for Eurasia at ACCA, said: 'This amendment marks an important milestone in advancing the professional development of public sector finance professionals. It will help broaden access to internationally recognised learning and support the continued development of the knowledge and skills required for effective public financial management.

'We look forward to continuing our close cooperation with partners to support long-term professional development and further strengthen public sector finance capabilities in Azerbaijan.'

International Public Sector Accounting Standards have been developed to enhance the quality, consistency and transparency of public sector financial reporting worldwide. Issued by the International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board, they comprise cash-basis and accrual-basis standards used in the preparation of general purpose financial statements by governments and other public sector entities around the world.

ACCA's Certificate in IPSAS has been specifically developed to help finance professionals meet the challenges of implementing IPSAS.

The exemption applies to the first stage of the relevant national examination. Candidates must meet all remaining requirements for obtaining the relevant professional accountant certificate in Azerbaijan.