The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr. Otar Shamugia, met with the Georgian Blueberry Growers' Association (GBGA) members and European exporters.
During the meeting, the parties discussed various issues, including post-harvest handling/storage of blueberries, how the season progresses, the importance of exports, and the possibilities of increasing blueberry crop production.
The Minister focused on the state support programs, particularly the program "Plant the Future".
" This year, Georgia exported a record volume of blueberries amounting to USD 26 million. We have assisted farmers in planting around 2700 hectares of blueberry orchards through our program "Plant the Future", and we expect to increase harvests from these orchards annually. Moreover, we expect to harvest about 20–25,000 tonnes in the upcoming years. Meanwhile, promoting product diversification and increasing sales in different markets is crucial. This year, Georgia exported 500 tonnes of blueberries to the EU market, and we strive to improve these results. Therefore, we will support the industry to the greatest extent possible in the future as well", said Mr. Otar Shamugia.
"I can assure you that the season for handling and storing blueberries has been successful. Logistics services were well organized and run without any challenges. We would convey the favorable responses Georgian blueberries received since entering the EU market.
It is worth mentioning that Georgian farmers put an enormous amount of effort and dedication, and we think that Georgian blueberry has a great production potential", said Mr. Ahmet Aktas, the exporter and founder of the Company "Wonderland Farmers".
The conversation touched upon the importance of state support for blueberry processing, juice production, and packaging.
The Deputy Minister, Mr. Tengiz Nasaridze, and representatives of the relevant services of the Ministry attended the meeting.
