Lasha Dolidze Meets with the Representatives of the Aquaculture Sector.

A working meeting with the representatives of the aquaculture sector was chaired by the Deputy Minister, Mr Lasha Dolidze.

During the meeting, the parties discussed current trends in the development of the aquaculture sector, existing challenges within the industry, and key areas of state support.

Discussions focused on strengthening biosecurity systems, fish disease management, access to advisory services, the need to adopt modern technologies, and the importance of training qualified specialists in the sector.

“Together with sector representatives, we will work on improving financing mechanisms, strengthening biosecurity standards in aquaculture farms, and implementing legislative amendments that will support the development of the sector. In this process, access to knowledge and education is of particular importance, as qualified expertise is one of the main foundations for the sustainable development of the industry,” stated Mr Lasha Dolidze.

According to sector representatives, the introduction of modern technologies, adherence to biosecurity standards, and the enhancement of farmers’ professional knowledge are crucial for developing the aquaculture sector.

“Issues related to biosecurity and disease management require special attention. Although the National Food Agency is actively working in this direction, farmers’ awareness and practical knowledge of how to maintain biosecurity standards in their own farms remain a challenge. Therefore, considerable work still lies ahead in the areas of education and advisory services,” stated Aleksandre Baghdadze, Chairman of the Organic Aquaculture Development Association “Foreji”.

Notably, modern fish disease diagnostic methods have already been introduced at the State Laboratory of Agriculture, enabling timely diagnosis and prevention of diseases. This service allows farmers to receive research results that comply with international standards locally.

The Head of the National Food Agency, Mr Giorgi Iakobashvili, Director of the State Laboratory of Agriculture, Mr Irakli Guledani, Director of the Scientific-Research Centre of Agriculture, Mr Levan Ujmajuridze, Head of the Department of Environmental Supervision, Mr Levan Jgharkava, Director of the Rural Development Agency, Mr Zurab Gozalishvili, as well as representatives of the Ministry and the sector, attended the meeting