Georgia has recorded its highest cattle export figures in 15 years, selling USD 58.05 million worth of cattle in the first nine months of 2025, according to the National Statistics Service. This marks a 54.5% rise in value and a 34.3% increase in volume compared to the same period last year.
In total, 17,493 tons of cattle were exported during this period, slightly surpassing the previous record of USD 58.04 million reached in 2023.
This surge follows the lifting of restrictions on cattle exports, which had been in place since 2019. Initially, the export of young cattle weighing up to 140 kilograms was banned to promote domestic meat production and expand the local cattle base. The threshold was later raised to 160 kilograms.
However, in December 2024, the Liberty Institute and farmers from Kvemo Kvaloni successfully appealed the regulation in the Constitutional Court, leading to the restoration of full exporting rights from April 1, 2025.
In terms of export destinations, Georgia sold cattle to only two countries this year:
- Iraq – 11,283 tons worth $36.8 million
- Azerbaijan – 6,210 tons worth $21.2 million
This record performance highlights a significant recovery and expansion in Georgia’s livestock export market following years of restrictions.
