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

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Otar Shamugia gets familiar with the peach crop-delivery process.

The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr. Otar Shamugia, along with Kakheti State Representative, Mr. Giorgi Aladashvili, and Majoritarian MP Mr. Davit Songhulashvili, got acquainted with the peach harvest delivery process in the village of Chumlaki,  Gurjaani Municipality.

"The peach crop's handling, storage, and selling is actively underway. This year, we received a good harvest both in quantity and quality. About 12,000 tonnes of products have already been exported, and the process is in full swing. I think this year will be successful for our farmers. Selling peaches was a significant challenge years ago. 
Therefore, the project, which was carried out to promote the cultivation of peaches with the cooperation of the state and the private sector, is a clear example of addressing these challenges; consequently, the field has become successful and profitable for farmers. This year, I think we will have even better earnings. From the point of view of export, the price has increased by approximately 5-6%; Farmers and, therefore, the country will get more benefits," Mr. Otar Shamugia said.

According to the Minister, current storage facilities can store the products in compliance with modern standards before exporting them. Farmers are pleased with this year's peach harvest; the harvest is good, and the delivery process is running smoothly with state support.

According to Davit Songulashvili, the government's priority is to ensure that farmers do not have products left behind, and this is the area where state programs play a crucial role.

"Gold Kakheti" company is a beneficiary of state programs. The company has invested GEL 600,000 to set up a modern cold storage facility, including state co-financing amounting to GEL 160,000 and preferential agro-credit of GEL 200,000.

The cold storage facility can store 300 tonnes of peaches and nectarines and has 100 seasonal and five permanent employees.

During the current harvest season, more than 40 cold storage facilities created with state funding are participating in the peach-receiving process in the Kakheti region.