David Songulashvili meets with the Representatives of the wheat sector

The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr. David Songulashvili, convened a sectoral council meeting with representatives of the wheat sector. The meeting focused on addressing existing challenges within the sector and identifying concrete directions for its development. The mentioned format is designed to enhance coordination between the state and industry stakeholders, while fostering the sustainable development of wheat production.


According to the Minister, the wheat sector remains one of the government's priority areas, and additional support mechanisms are planned to further advance the field.


“Wheat is one of the key crops in terms of the country’s food security. Therefore, we convened a meeting with farmers and wheat producers from various regions.  Moreover, we reviewed all the major challenges facing the sector. It is essential to note that, due to varying climatic conditions, regions are facing distinct challenges. Accordingly, we discussed the creation of unified mechanisms that will be supported by the state. Ultimately, work on these mechanisms will continue actively in cooperation with the Rural Development Agency, ensuring that the needs and priorities raised by farmers are fully reflected,” Mr. David Songulashvili stated.


During the meeting, the parties focused on the availability of certified seeds, the need to adopt modern machinery and technologies, and the provision of storage infrastructure for small and medium-sized farmers. The discussion also highlighted a shortage of qualified specialists, which directly affects product quality and competitiveness. Special emphasis was placed on access to irrigation water and its management, including irrigation tariffs and the effectiveness of state subsidy mechanisms.


“We discussed the challenges we face. The Ministry outlined solutions, and we expect these issues to be gradually resolved. The irrigation water-related issue is crucial. The water supply from the Nadarbazevi reservoir has already begun, which means we will be provided with water throughout the year. This is one of the most critical issues for farmers,” said farmer Ioseb Khuroshvili.


The farmers also noted that heavy rainfall this year has created certain difficulties; however, with state support, they expect a good harvest.


The Deputies of the Minister, Mr. Lasha Avaliani and Mr. Lasha Dolidze, Director of the Rural Development Agency, Mr.  Zurab Gozalishvili, General Director of the Georgian Amelioration, Mr. Gigla Tamazashvili, Head of the National Food Agency, Mr.  Giorgi Iakobashvili, Director of the Scientific-Research Center, Mr. Levan Ujmajuridze, and the Heads of relevant Departments within the Ministry, attended the meeting.