Wheat Imports in Georgia Amid Global Trends

Wheat is an essential product for Georgia, serving not only as a primary food source for the population but also as a stabilizing factor for the country’s agricultural economy. In 2024, Georgia’s imports of wheat and meslin amounted to $76.1 million, marking a 32% increase compared to the previous year, though 29% lower than in 2020. Notably, this reduction in wheat imports was largely replaced by a significant rise in wheat flour imports. In 2020, flour imports stood at just $3.1 million, but by 2024, this figure had surged to $18.5 million—a sixfold increase. These shifts have substantially changed the structure of Georgia’s wheat dependency, showing that the country is seeking new ways to meet domestic demand.

Georgia’s wheat imports are significantly influenced by global market trends, which in recent years have faced numerous challenges and opportunities. The COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and climate changes have all played major roles in shaping global supply and demand.

During the early years of the pandemic, disruptions in supply chains and logistical challenges caused agricultural product prices to rise. For Georgia, which heavily depends on wheat imports, these dynamics were among the reasons for reduced imports, as prices surged and supplies tightened. Furthermore, Georgia’s reliance on key partners, such as Russia, has amplified the effects of regional dynamics.

The war in Ukraine, as one of the world’s largest wheat producers, introduced additional instability to global markets. Disruptions to Black Sea grain exports created further uncertainty for Georgia’s ability to secure wheat supplies. Although alternative trade routes and suppliers emerged, the balance between supply and demand remained disrupted, leading to temporary declines in imports.

Changes in wheat prices significantly impact consumer prices, as wheat and its derivatives are key ingredients in many staple food products. In Georgia, the price of wheat flour rose sharply in 2022, driven by these factors. However, during 2023-2024, flour prices have gradually decreased, reflecting market stabilization and declining global costs. This trend has positively influenced consumer prices.