The Georgian Dream government has announced a major policy shift regarding the imports and sale of psychotropic medications. According to GD Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, the state will assume full control over the imports and distribution of drugs subject to special control, effectively banning private companies from bringing these substances into the country.
“Today, private entities import psychotropic medications into Georgia. These entities have a direct interest in artificially encouraging their use. To prevent such practices, the import of psychotropic medications by private companies will be completely prohibited,” Kobakhidze stated.
Under the new policy, only the state will have the authority to import and sell psychotropic and other specially regulated drugs. The measure is part of a broader effort to combat the misuse and over-prescription of such medications.
In addition to the import ban, the government will tighten oversight on the prescription and dispensing of psychotropic drugs. Kobakhidze emphasized that continuous monitoring of usage statistics will be a key tool in assessing the effectiveness of the reform.
“We will closely monitor the statistics of psychotropic drug usage. A significant decrease will serve as a clear indicator that the state has succeeded in curbing misuse,” he said.
The move comes amid growing concerns about the overuse and abuse of psychotropic substances in Georgia, with critics pointing to lax regulation and the commercial interests of importers as contributing factors.
This new state-led approach aims to safeguard public health and reduce dependence on controlled substances by prioritizing public interest over commercial gain.
