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David Songulashvili: “It is vital for Georgian niche products to establish a strong presence in international markets”
The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr David Songulashvili, visited the small-scale dairy processing enterprise “Marta Bebo” in Tianeti and got familiar with its operations.
Established by a woman entrepreneur, the enterprise produces niche dairy products, including dambalkhacho (a traditional Georgian aged cheese) and butter. The facility is equipped with modern infrastructure and state-of-the-art processing technology.
“Developing niche products presents a particularly important opportunity for Georgia. Our objective is to ensure that such products become not only part of domestic consumption, but also the foundation for modern agribusiness, supported by appropriate standards, high-quality packaging, and effective market positioning.
“The development of niche production is particularly important for the regions. A specific product can become part of a region’s economic identity, generate additional income for local communities, and support tourism development. Our task is to turn the distinctiveness of Georgian products into their key competitive advantage,” said Mr David Songulashvili.
The enterprise has implemented a HACCP food safety management system. It also features a dedicated tasting room serving tourists and other visitors.
The Deputy Minister, Mr Lasha Avaliani; Mr Zurab Gozalishvili, Director of the Rural Development Agency; Mr Giorgi Iakobashvili, Head of the National Food Agency; and Mr Levan Tsiklauri, Mayor of Tianeti Municipality, accompanied the Minister.