International demand for Georgian hazelnuts remains strong, but a sharp increase in export prices is not expected this season, according to Baia Salukvadze, founder of Blue Bird Berries and GPR Nuts, who spoke on BMGTV’s “Women’s Narrative.”
Salukvadze said quality issues with Georgian hazelnuts are affecting price formation, although demand remains high. “Quality is one of the key factors influencing buyers’ decisions and prices. Demand for Georgian hazelnuts remains active this year, but we do not expect export prices to be very high,” she said.
Competition in international markets will also put pressure on prices. Turkey, in particular, is expecting a strong harvest this year, while other producing countries are also increasing supply, creating additional competition for Georgian hazelnuts, especially in the European Union market.
Salukvadze said maintaining quality will be particularly important, as the EU is one of the largest and most stable markets for Georgian hazelnuts. She noted that companies may face difficulties fully meeting specifications for high-quality products this year, but retaining existing customers will remain a priority.
