Blueberries are emerging as one of Georgia’s most promising export crops, with significant growth potential in global markets. According to Tornike Panjavidze, President of the Blueberry Association, strong international demand creates an opportunity for Georgia to increase exports in the coming years substantially.
Currently, the country produces around 7,000 tons of blueberries annually, but output is expected to grow three to four times as newly planted orchards reach full capacity. Panjavidze estimates that exports, which now stand at about $40 million, could rise to as much as $200 million in the future.
Government programs, including grants and subsidized loans from the Rural Development Agency have largely supported the sector’s growth. These initiatives have enabled farmers to invest in large-scale orchards and modern infrastructure, making Georgian blueberries more competitive across global markets.
Looking ahead, infrastructure improvements, particularly the planned cargo terminal at Kutaisi International Airport, are expected to further boost exports. Enhanced logistics will allow producers to access European and Asian markets more efficiently, while ongoing certification and quality upgrades continue to open new trade opportunities beyond traditional markets like Russia.
