The Decline in Car Imports to Georgia – What Is Behind the Market Stagnation?

At the beginning of 2025, Georgia experienced a significant drop in car imports. According to official data from Geostat, only 19,765 cars were imported into the country during January-February, which is nearly a quarter less than in the same period of the previous year. The total value of imported cars amounted to $326.8 million, which is 23.3% less than the $391.4 million worth of vehicles imported during January-February 2024.

Despite the sharp decline in imports, the export (more accurately, re-export) figures remained almost unchanged. During the first two months of this year, 12,238 cars were exported from Georgia, slightly less than the 12,373 units exported last year. However, revenue from exports has significantly increased, rising from $262.6 million to $285.2 million. This suggests that the average price of re-exported cars has increased, indicating structural changes in the market.

Georgia’s main partners in the automobile market have not changed, but certain trends are noticeable. The largest number of cars continues to be imported from the United States, which remains the absolute leader with 15,301 cars and almost $193.5 million worth of imports. Following the U.S. is Japan, from which 1,733 cars were imported, with the total value exceeding $48 million.

Interestingly, China, which entered the top five last year for the first time, has strengthened its position even further this year. The number of cars imported from China reached 641 units, equivalent to $5.4 million. Germany and South Korea occupy the fourth and fifth positions, with relatively fewer cars imported but at a higher average price.

In terms of exports, Georgia remains most active in the Kyrgyz market. During January-February, 5,020 cars were exported to Kyrgyzstan, with the export value reaching $148.8 million. Close behind is Kazakhstan, which received 4,912 cars from Georgia with a total value of $84.2 million. Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Tajikistan continue to be stable markets for Georgian re-exports, though the numbers in these directions are relatively modest.

The growing influence of China in the automobile import sector may indicate that Georgian consumers are gradually prioritizing more affordable vehicles. However, despite the decline in imports, the stability of exports provides some protection for the Georgian economy. Georgia’s status as a car trade hub in the region helps the country maintain significant positions in the Central Asian markets.