Georgia’s Fruit Sector Is Booming — But Is It Built to Last?

In 2024, Georgia’s fruit production grew significantly. Apples, peaches, plums, berries — and especially grapes — all saw strong harvests. According to official data, overall fruit production (excluding grapes and citrus) increased by 25%, while grape production surged by more than 45%. But the bigger question is: does this mark the beginning of a stable, long-term trend — or is it just a temporary peak driven by favorable weather and market conditions?

Beyond raw output, exports tell an even more compelling story. Georgia’s fruit exports surpassed $236 million in 2024, up 14% compared to the previous year. Exports of hazelnuts, blueberries, and apples saw the largest gains. Apple exports alone reached 17,000 tons, which is six times higher than the previous year — a remarkable shift for a product that was mostly sold domestically in the past.

However, not all is smooth. Many small producers still struggle to access international markets. Meeting EU certification standards remains costly and bureaucratically complex. Storage and post-harvest infrastructure are underdeveloped, leading to spoilage or low sale prices during surplus periods.

At the same time, global competition is rising. Cheap imports from South America, particularly citrus and apples, are putting pressure on local growers — especially during the off-season when Georgian produce is scarce. These structural vulnerabilities suggest that growth alone won’t be enough if underlying weaknesses remain unaddressed.

Still, there are encouraging signs. Blueberry growers, for example, are planting new varieties and expanding into higher-altitude regions to extend the harvest season — from spring well into autumn. This shows a shift not just in quantity, but in strategic planning and adaptability.

Georgia’s fruit sector is no longer just a sideline in agriculture — it’s becoming a real contributor to the economy. But turning this momentum into sustainable growth will require more than just favorable weather and one good year. It will demand serious investment in export capacity, cold chain infrastructure, farmer cooperatives, and long-term policy support. Without that, Georgia risks turning a breakthrough year into a missed opportunity.