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

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Anti-hail nets manufacturer company opens in Kareli municipality.

With the support of the state, a new enterprise producing anti-hail nets was opened in Kareli municipality.

The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture Mr. Otar Shamugia, together with the State Representative of Shida Kartli region, Mikheil Shakulashvili, representatives of the local government and the Ministry of Economy, attended the opening event of the new enterprise - LTD "Agrobade".

The anti-hail nets producer company is located in the village of Ruisi, Kareli region. Currently, the company employs thirty-seven locals.

''The new enterprise was established with the joint support of the state and the USAID agriculture program. Local manufacturing of anti-hail nets will significantly improve farmers' access to anti-hail devices. We seek to protect farmers from hail damage as much as possible, thus assisting them in purchasing relevant anti-hail systems through Preferential Agro-credit and "Plant the Future" programs.

Meanwhile, since 2014, we have been implementing the Agro-insurance program, therefore, we ask farmers to participate and take advantage of the state program. We update the program yearly, considering the needs of the residents.  We have some novelty under the agro-insurance program, grape growers will get 70% co-financing,  which will make the program more available. I would also like to emphasize that we welcome all initiatives, and new businesses that create products, contribute to the economy, and employ our people," stated Mr. Otar Shamugia. 

 According to the Mission Director of USAID/Georgia, Mr. John Pennell, opening another enterprise is the best example of the bilateral cooperation between USAID and the Government of Georgia.

 "USAID is proud to cooperate with the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture. This is the first enterprise in the country that produces anti-hail nets, which is critical for agricultural development. The enterprise will help farmers in avoiding expected losses and strengthening the country's economy," said Mr. John Penelli.

''Agrobade'' LTD intends to produce 1 million m2 of anti-hail nets and 600,000 net bags annually. Net bags are used to pack and transport vegetables. Farmers will be able to purchase Georgian products at a lower price than imported ones.
As stated by the state representative of Shida Kartli, Mikheil Shakulashvili, Agriculture is a vital sector in the Shida Kartli region, hence, the provision and access to anti-hail nets is critical for farmers. Similar initiatives always get state support, at the national and local levels.