Starting April 1, new, higher irrigation tariffs have come into effect. Unsubsidized farmers will now pay 116.5 GEL per watering, up from the previous annual fee of 75 GEL, while in western Georgia the tariff remains lower at 45 GEL.
The government has set tariffs based on crop type: one-time watering for annual crops costs 116.5 GEL (including VAT), while for perennial crops, irrigation is priced at 102 GEL per hectare. Under the new system, the government will partially subsidize water use, covering three waterings per season, with farmers responsible for the remaining costs.
Farmers who wish to receive irrigation on a set schedule must contact the service centers of “Georgian Amelioration” and sign a water-use agreement. The state company will then ensure water delivery according to the agreed timetable.
“Farmers must conclude contracts before the irrigation season begins to guarantee an uninterrupted water supply according to their planned schedule. Water fees will be paid based on the actual service received, not at the time of contract signing,” said Gigla Tamazashvili, General Director of Georgian Amelioration.
