Georgia’s peach harvest and exports have faced significant challenges this year due to unfavorable weather conditions and weaker demand in key markets. Heavy rainfall, late spring weather and severe hailstorms damaged large portions of orchards across the country, reducing both the quantity and quality of the crop. Exporters say the lower quality of fruit has made it more difficult for farmers and companies to meet international market standards.
According to Vakhtang Bezhitashvili, chairman of the Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association, exports to Russia have become increasingly difficult amid the ongoing war and economic pressures affecting consumer purchasing power. He said sales of Georgian peaches have particularly declined in Moscow, which was previously one of the main destinations for the product. Currently, exports are mainly reaching cities in Russia’s North Caucasus and other nearby regions where logistics are easier and cheaper.
Official statistics show that Georgia’s peach and nectarine exports dropped sharply in the first six months of 2026. The country exported $972.8 thousand worth of 802 tonnes of peaches and nectarines in January-June, compared with $3.8 million and 3,151 tonnes during the same period of 2025. Russia remained the largest market, accounting for $582 thousand worth of exports, while Armenia purchased $390 thousand worth of Georgian peaches.
Bezhitashvili said the situation highlights the need for greater market diversification, particularly toward European markets. He noted that Georgia has previously managed to export peaches and nectarines to Europe, but could not maintain consistent supply volumes and quality standards. According to him, both the private sector and the government need to work together to identify barriers, improve production standards and help farmers build stable export channels beyond Russia.
