Union of Trade and Commercial Centers (Markets) has formally requested the postponement of mandatory cash register usage for traders operating in markets until January 1, 2030. The request was submitted in a letter to the Parliament of Georgia on June 9 by the Union of Trade and Commercial Centers (Markets), signed by its Chairman, Mukhran Bagrationi. On June 11, the Parliamentary Bureau referred the appeal to the Finance and Budget Committee for further consideration.
According to the current Tax Code of Georgia, beginning January 1, 2026, individuals selling goods at counters within market areas will be legally required to use cash registers. However, the Union argues that the mandate is misaligned with the current socio-economic realities, disproportionately affecting vendors and fair organizers.
The letter emphasizes that many of the traders are from vulnerable social groups, including elderly individuals and those with limited education and financial resources. These traders often lack the means to purchase and operate cash registers, which would necessitate both technical training and infrastructure upgrades.
“This regulation will impose additional financial burdens and may lead to job losses, further deteriorating the already fragile social conditions of these individuals,” the Union warns.
Infrastructural readiness is another key concern. The Union claims that fairs across the country are not technically or logistically prepared for the widespread implementation of cash register systems, citing significant cost implications for organizers.
“The fact that this regulation has technically been in place since 2005, but has never been enforced, raises serious questions about its practical applicability. The continued deferral for nearly two decades suggests the market simply isn’t ready,” the letter notes.
The Union proposes two potential solutions:
1. Postpone the enforcement of the cash register requirement until 2030, or
2. Introduce a voluntary system, giving traders and fair organizers the freedom to adopt cash registers at their discretion.
Additionally, the Union urges Parliament to review and potentially reduce fines associated with non-compliance, stressing that their goal is to support the country’s tax modernization efforts, but in a gradual, socially responsible, and realistic manner.
“Our appeal is aligned with the state’s broader fiscal goals, but we advocate for a phased and humane approach that respects the economic constraints of small traders,” the statement concludes.
