New Opportunities in Georgia’s Agro-Exports

In 2024, Georgia demonstrated significant progress in agricultural exports, with local products reaching 107 countries. According to a report published by the Ministry of Environment Protection and Agriculture, the country’s agribusiness sector has moved beyond domestic markets, establishing itself as a key player on the international stage.

Over the past year, agricultural exports grew by 17%, reaching an all-time high of $1.68 billion. This means that agricultural products accounted for 26% of Georgia’s total exports, a key indicator of the sector’s economic diversification and stability.

Leading Agro-Export Products

Georgia’s top high-revenue agricultural exports in 2024 were:

• Wine – $276 million
• Spirits (brandy, chacha, etc.) – $186 million
• Mineral and fresh water – $163 million
• Non-alcoholic carbonated beverages – $139.1 million
• Nut products (walnuts, hazelnuts, etc.) – $106.2 million

Expansion into the European Market

One of the most notable developments was the 11% increase in exports to the European Union (EU), amounting to $180 million in 2024. This growth reflects European buyers’ increased trust in Georgian products and the alignment of Georgian producers with EU standards.

While the EU remains a key strategic market, Russia continues to be Georgia’s largest trading partner for agricultural exports. At the same time, active trade relations have been maintained with Azerbaijan, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, and Kyrgyzstan, further solidifying Georgia’s role as a regional agricultural hub.

Challenges: Trade Deficit and Import Dependence

Despite export growth, Georgia still imports more agricultural products than it exports. In 2024, agro-imports amounted to $2.196 billion, reflecting an 8.8% annual increase. However, the agricultural trade deficit narrowed by 11%, reducing to $516 million, signaling a gradual decrease in import dependence and a strengthening of domestic production.

The Future of Georgian Agro-Exports

Industry experts highlight the need for a sustainable long-term vision to maintain export growth. Key strategies include:

1. Strengthening domestic production through technological advancements
2. Enhancing trade partnerships with the EU and US
3. Diversifying the agricultural sector to reduce over-reliance on key products
4. Implementing higher quality standards to expand into premium global markets

Conclusion

Georgia’s agricultural export growth in 2024 confirms that the country is on the right path. However, achieving long-term success will require deeper structural reforms, greater investment in modernization, and aggressive expansion into global markets. The current achievements serve as both a positive economic indicator and a clear sign of Georgia’s evolving potential in the global agro-food industry.