The Georgian government has reversed its earlier decision to ban the imports of cars older than six years. As Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced during a government meeting, instead of a ban, the excise tax on these vehicles will be significantly increased - the new rate will be 4.5 GEL per cubic centimeter of engine volume.
“Instead of banning the import of older vehicles, we are introducing a 4.5-GEL excise rate per cubic centimeter. This decision is important for environmental protection and cleaner air,” Kobakhidze stated, adding that the adjustment was made with the interests of private businesses and citizens in mind.
Currently, the excise tax for 6–8-year-old vehicles stands at 0.80 GEL per cubic centimeter, with even higher rates for cars older than eight years. Under the new rule, the excise tax will increase by approximately six times.
On February 12, Kobakhidze announced that the imports of cars older than six years would be fully banned starting April 1. The announcement triggered strong backlash from auto importers and citizens. Industry representatives argued that the ban would also harm the re-export market, even though the regulation formally did not apply to export or transit operations.
