Economist Roman Gotsiridze has criticized the Georgian government’s decision to raise import tariffs on cars older than six years, saying it will effectively block the renewal of the country’s vehicle fleet. Instead of banning older cars outright, the government introduced a new excise tax, which Gotsiridze compares to former U.S. President Trump’s punitive tariffs.
“Previously, importing and registering a car cost around GEL 1,700, but now it can reach GEL 10,000. A car that cost $2,000 abroad could cost GEL 11–12,000, including imports and clearance. This makes importing older cars completely pointless,” Gotsiridze said, warning that the policy acts as a de facto ban.
He added that the measure will backfire, leaving Georgia’s roads filled with old, damaged vehicles. Currently, cars older than 20 years make up 25% of the fleet, while vehicles under six years represent only 3%. Raising tariffs will make it unaffordable for most citizens to buy newer, safer cars, forcing them to continue driving aging vehicles for many years.
The government originally announced a full ban on cars older than six years, effective April 1, 2026, but reversed the decision. Instead, the excise tax on vehicles manufactured before 2020 will increase from GEL 0.8 per cubic centimeter to GEL 4.5, a 5.6-fold hike, significantly raising import costs. Gotsiridze called the measure a “corrupt scheme” that sacrifices the interests of Georgian citizens.
