The Georgian Competition and Consumer Agency (GCCA) has initiated monitoring of the retail market for pesticides and agrochemicals in response to a formal request from the National Food Agency of Georgia. The objective of this initiative is to evaluate current market dynamics and analyze pricing practices both market-driven and potentially non-market-based within the framework of competition law, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the competitive environment.
According to the request, over 1,000 types of pesticides and approximately 1,450 types of agrochemicals (fertilizers), produced in various countries, are currently registered in Georgia and imported by more than 60 domestic companies. The National Food Agency further reports that, during consultations with farmers across different regions, concerns were expressed regarding possible anti-competitive agreements or abuses of dominant positions in the retail sale of these products. Such conduct could limit accessibility and ultimately impact the market prices of agricultural produce.
In view of the seriousness of the concerns raised, the GCCA has launched a comprehensive review to assess the situation in detail. Interim results will be shared publicly and made available to all relevant stakeholders.
Given that the National Food Agency, operating under the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture is the designated authority for the registration and oversight of pesticides and agrochemicals used in agriculture, the monitoring process will be conducted in close cooperation with the relevant institutions.
GCCA continues to monitor other priority sectors, including the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) market, auto fuel, and tobacco.
