Georgia's government has approved a new Technical Regulation on Tea, which will enter into force on September 1, 2026, introducing quality, labeling, hygiene, and production standards for tea placed on the domestic market.
Under Government Decree No. 333, signed by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on July 17, the regulation sets requirements for tea produced from the leaves of the tea plant (Camellia sinensis) and establishes rules for the production, processing, and marketing of tea by business operators.
The regulation defines terminology related to tea plants, fresh and dried leaves, color, aroma, taste, processing methods, and internationally recognized quality grades, including Whole Leaf, Brokens, Fannings, and Dust.
It also establishes quality, organoleptic, and chemical standards for different tea categories—such as leaf, granular, and pressed tea—and sets limits for moisture, extractable substances, ash, and crude fiber content. Tea products will also be classified by quality grades, including Bouquet, Premium, First, Second, and Third.
Tea sold on the Georgian market must comply with food safety requirements under the new regulation and existing legislation, be properly labeled, and transport packaging is recommended to carry moisture protection warnings.
The regulation also introduces specific hygiene requirements for businesses involved in tea production, processing, and distribution. Tea storage facilities must maintain relative humidity below 70%, and storing tea alongside perishable foods or strongly scented products will be prohibited.
Compliance will be monitored by the National Food Agency during state inspections, while businesses will be responsible for conducting internal production controls.
Although the regulation takes effect on September 1, 2026, products that were placed on the market or labeled before that date and do not comply with the new rules may continue to be sold until their expiration date, but no later than September 1, 2027.
