Russia’s import restrictions on Georgian products could put significant financial pressure on Georgian road freight companies by reducing cargo volumes, lowering transport rates and worsening the shortage of return loads, according to the Transport Corridor Research Center (TCRC).
The restrictions currently affect products from seven Georgian companies, but their scope could expand. TCRC warns that carriers heavily dependent on the Russian market may struggle to find alternative destinations and maintain profitable operations.
In January–August 2026, Georgia exported $237.6 million worth of wine, other alcoholic beverages and mineral water to Russia, accounting for 7.2% of total domestic exports. Meanwhile, international road freight reached 11.8 million tonnes in January–September, the highest level in a decade.
A major challenge for carriers is securing return cargo. Transporting wine from Kakheti to Moscow costs around $1,900–$2,100 per truck, while return shipments from Russia to Georgia can cost $3,000–$3,200. According to drivers, return loads help compensate for the low profitability of outbound trips. Losing them would make it harder to cover fuel, wages, insurance, leasing and maintenance costs.
Switching to European markets will also be difficult. TCRC notes that around 65% of Georgian carriers operate a single truck, while 32% own up to five vehicles. Entering European markets requires access to international permits, modern trucks, sufficient working capital, qualified drivers and knowledge of EU transport regulations. Georgian companies must also compete with established European operators that already have long-term contracts and networks of customers.
TCRC says the government should help carriers modernize their fleets through financing and leasing mechanisms, improve professional training for drivers and transport managers, and collect better data on permits, operating costs and empty return trips. Targeted support, the center argues, should begin with identifying the specific barriers preventing Georgian carriers from operating profitably in European markets.
