Georgia’s exports are growing, reflecting the country’s increasing involvement in international markets. The main exports are metals, cars, nuts, fertilisers, wine and mineral water. According to data for January-August 2024, Georgia’s main export markets are Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan and Armenia. Overall, most of Georgia’s exports go to post-Soviet countries, while EU countries account for only 8.2% of total exports.

Exports to EU markets are important for Georgia’s developing economy for several reasons. Firstly, the EU is one of the world’s largest and richest consumer markets, providing opportunities for trade and economic growth. Secondly, exports to the EU can enhance Georgia’s international reputation and credibility by demonstrating its compliance with high quality standards and regulations. Finally, goods exported to EU markets often command better prices and margins, thus boosting profitability and contributing to the country’s economic development as a step towards the strategic choice of EU membership.

The aim of the initiative is to bring together a group of experts and ensure that they work within a framework that will help those who need it most to flourish. The Consortium is confident that by combining functional knowledge of how to run SME support programmes in the Caucasus and CEE regions with EU-wide networks and export experts from target industries, it will maximise the chances of success.