New wine-sector regulations are creating additional bureaucratic burdens for small and medium-sized wineries, according to Shalva Kurdadze, founder of Papris Valley Winery. He said the paid compliance certificate introduced on September 1 is not the only concern, as certification also requires additional time and staff resources.
Kurdadze said the procedures are particularly difficult for small wineries, where one person often handles several roles. He argued that the added paperwork does not improve wine quality and takes time away from production activities such as harvesting.
He also noted that certification, oenological analysis and laboratory costs are adding to production expenses. Kurdadze said the increased regulatory burden has reduced his motivation to expand production or strengthen operations on the domestic market.
The winery is now focusing more heavily on exports and exploring new markets, including Paraguay and Mexico. Since September 1, the compliance certificate for Georgian wine sold on the local market has cost GEL 10, after previously being provided free of charge.
