Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia

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George Khanishvili hosted the representatives of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and experts from Kansas State University

The First Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture Mr. George Khanishvili held a meeting with the representatives of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and experts from Kansas State University.

The participants discussed the initial results of the research, which was conducted by American experts to reveal challenges in the wheat sector and increase the sustainability of the wheat supply chain for Georgia. It was mentioned, that the group of experts will develop relevant recommendations on the basis of the final results of the research.

According to Mr. Khanishvili, the increase in quality, as well as quantity of local wheat production, replacing dependence on international markets, and encouraging domestic industry by limiting imports of manufactured goods is crucial for Georgia.

"I would like to express my gratitude for your efforts. With the adoption of competent final recommendations, a new stage will begin in the wheat sector, which will be related to the wheat, seed, and grain crop production in the country. I believe, that we will be able to achieve the desired goal with effective teamwork", said Mr. George Khanishvili.

According to the Head of the expert group, Mr. Allen Featherstone, the primary research conducted in the wheat sector showed, that Georgia has real potential to increase production and improve the quality of wheat products.

 "The project will be successful when Georgia achieves its main goal - increases the yield of wheat and satisfies the local market demand with its own manufacturing capabilities," said Mr. Allen Featherstone.

During the meeting, the parties brought forward wheat diseases, as one of the main factors affecting the yield of crops. 

It is worth mentioning, that American experts studied the wheat production-supply chain during a week, they held meetings with the specialists of the relevant services of the Agricultural Scientific Research Center, farmers, and representatives of the flour mill companies.