The temporary parliamentary commission examining the pricing structures of food products, medicines, and fuel has adopted its final conclusions at a closing session, following debate over the draft document.

The document was presented by the commission’s Chairman, Shota Berekashvili, who outlined the key findings and recommendations reflected in the report.

“Through the Commission’s collective work, 3 significant sectors were examined. Corresponding conclusions prepared, namely food products, medicines, and fuel. In the course of our meetings, Commission engaged with nearly 70 companies representing the principal players in these sectors. In parallel, we examined the operational costs and business processes of more than 80 companies. Field research was conducted over a period of 3 months, during which food prices were continuously monitored. The study and analysis of the product market revealed how the Georgian market functions, and where it resembles or diverges from the markets of European countries”, - said Shota Berekashvili.

He went on to discuss in detail the findings from the review of all 3 sectors, presenting short- and long-term recommendations accordingly. Several of these recommendations focus on preparing legislative amendments and emphasising the importance of reducing operational costs and streamlining supply chains for domestic businesses.

According Berekashvili, the conclusions rest on strategic directions that will be forwarded to the executive branch for more detailed elaboration.

The draft conclusions prompted lively debate at the session. The Commission’s secretary, Eka Sepashvili, addressed commission members on behalf of the People’s Power parliamentary group, urging them to defer the vote: “Let us allow more time to examine the matter in depth, gather further information on the specific recommendations, and only then lend our support”.

Shalva Kereselidze, Chairman of the Gakharia for Georgia faction, said that his political group would not be endorsing the conclusions: “If we want prices in Georgia to start falling, what is needed is healthy competition. We will not be putting our names to this report, If you believe that prices in Georgia will begin to drop once these conclusions are published, I wish you the very best of luck”.

After expressing opinions on the project, the Commission members voted on the document. The Commission adopted the draft conclusion with 8 votes in favor and 6 against.