Strategic Decisions to Increase Georgian Export Potential (Trade in Goods)

Author : Giorgi Gaganidze

Abstract : Throughout the entire period of Georgian independence, every Government of Georgia (GoG) has attempted to create an export friendly environment. These efforts resulted in the establishment of a highly liberal trade regime characterized by zero export taxes, transparent export procedures, and relatively low administrative costs. Georgia is a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and enjoys a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the European Union, covering the entire European Economic Area, including the member states of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). Georgia also has FTAs with China, Turkey, and CIS member states, and benefits from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) with the United States, Canada, and Japan. Nevertheless, Georgia continues to experience a chronically negative trade balance in goods. Recent figures are presented below. Table 1. Georgian Exports, Imports, and Trade Balance (thousand USD) Source: ITC – www.intracen.org The maximum liberalization of trade regimes alone could not create the basis for sustainable export growth. Further trade liberalization should continue and most likely expand to include the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states. At the same time, practical steps should be taken to improve the quality of Georgian export products and transform them into higher value-added goods.

Keywords : Export product groups, export structure, new export products.

Conference Name : International Conference on Entrepreneurial Marketing and Business Growth (ICEMBG-26)

Conference Place : Istanbul, Turkey

Conference Date : 1st Oct 2026