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David Songulashvili: “Support for Farmers Includes Access to Agricultural Mechanisation”
The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr David Songulashvili, outlined measures to support farmers, key challenges facing the agricultural sector, and opportunities for its further development.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of quality control and the proper use of plant protection products. According to Mr Songulashvili, the state oversees this area through a range of regulatory mechanisms. In particular, the National Food Agency monitors plant protection products at every stage, from importation and certification to their subsequent sale on the domestic market.
“The National Food Agency is actively involved not only in overseeing the importation and certification of pesticides at the border, but also in monitoring their subsequent sale. At the same time, one of the most important challenges is access to knowledge and qualified agronomic advice. Farmers need to identify the disease affecting their crops and know which product to use in each specific case, and at what dose. Even a high-quality product may fail to deliver the desired results if used incorrectly. Therefore, pesticides must be applied correctly and in accordance with the relevant recommendations,” Mr David Songulashvili stated.
According to the Minister, the support for farmers also focuses on improving access to agricultural machinery, expanding processing capacity, and strengthening the position of Georgian products in export markets. He noted that the government is enhancing financial support mechanisms to help farmers improve their production and processing capabilities.
“We are actively working to expand access to agricultural mechanisation, with support currently available across more than 20 areas. This range is set to expand further, underpinned by the financial support mechanisms already in place. Moreover, support for small and medium-sized wineries is also crucial, as it enables farmers to create greater added value,” Mr Songulashvili said.
The Minister also highlighted the government’s efforts to boost Georgian wine exports and explore new markets.
“Further strengthening Georgian wine’s position in international markets and entering new markets are among our key priorities. Through various support mechanisms, including participation in international exhibitions, we help winemakers increase exports, enter new markets, and enhance their positions in existing ones,” Mr David Songulashvili noted.