Successful Free Trade Talks Promote Export of Georgian Products

Ekaterine Mikabadze, Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, announced Wednesday that in November 2018, exports increased by 19.6% compared to the previous year, a difference of $283.3 million.

The Government of Georgia has been actively working on further growing and diversifying the country's exports.

"Successful negotiations of free trade are determined by the growth of exports of Georgian products. The steps taken by the Government of Georgia to improve the competitiveness of the private sector and increase access to finance helps [Georgian producers] take advantage of free trade agreements," said Mikabadze.

She further explained that Georgian exports have been growing annually since September 2016. In 2017, exports increased by 29.5% ($2,735.5 million).

In January-November 2018, exports increased by 24% (3,033.5 million). Imports for the first 11 months of the year were 16.8% higher than the same period of the previous year. Foreign trade turnover increased by 18.6% ($11,324.7 million). 

By Samantha Guthrie

Photo: Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development