The Deputies of the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Lasha Dolidze and Lasha Avaliani, met with apple producers and exporters as part of the Sectoral Council meetings.

During the meeting, the parties discussed a wide range of issues, including preparations for the upcoming export season, opportunities to diversify export markets, and industry representatives’ key needs and priorities. The meeting also focused on farmer support mechanisms and the terms and conditions of the State Agricultural Co-Financing Programme.

“We discussed preparations for the upcoming export season, the needs facing the sector, and areas where additional support from our side could be particularly important. We also highlighted opportunities to improve state programmes and ensure their effective implementation. It is essential to maintain active cooperation with sector representatives throughout the entire season, from its initial stages through implementation and completion, so that we can respond to emerging needs promptly and jointly assess the results of the season”, - said Lasha Dolidze.

The parties also discussed measures to improve apple harvest forecasting and strengthen laboratory capacities. These areas are crucial for more effective production and sales planning, as well as for improving access to the necessary research and testing services in Georgia.

Notably, the Sectoral Council holds monthly meetings under the coordination of the Deputy Ministers. This format facilitates active communication with sector representatives, enables greater consideration of farmers’ interests, and supports effective planning of projects and initiatives aiming to develop the sector.

Apple is one of Georgia’s important export products. During the 2025/2026 marketing year, Georgia exported 24.6 thousand tonnes of apples, with a total export value of USD 18.6 million. Compared with the previous year, the volume of exported apples increased by 36%, while the average export price rose by 20%.

Zurab Gozalishvili, Director of the Rural Development Agency; Levan Ujmajuridze, Director of the Scientific-Research Center of Agriculture; and the Heads of the relevant Departments of the Ministry attended the meeting.