Giorgi Mshvidobadze, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Georgian Wine Holding, says the current political climate in Georgia is negatively affecting the business environment, creating a sense of instability and discouraging long-term planning.
“I would be lying if I said that the current political processes are having a positive effect on business,” Mshvidobadze told BMGTV. “Of course, there are nihilistic sentiments, which create a feeling of instability.”
Georgian Wine Holding brings together several major companies in the wine sector, including Vazisubanis Mamuli, Vardzia Terraces, and Royal Khvanchkara. The group manages around 80 hectares of vineyards across Racha, Kakheti, and Vardzia, producing up to 45 types of wine and exporting to nearly 20 countries, including the United States, China, France, and the United Kingdom.
Mshvidobadze emphasized that the prevailing uncertainty has forced businesses to abandon long-term strategies. “It’s no longer practical to make long-term plans. We’ve shifted to short-term planning only, because we don’t know what the situation in the country will be even two months from now. Most companies in our sector are doing the same,” he said.
In addition to domestic instability, global economic developments are adding further pressure on businesses. Mshvidobadze cited ongoing trade tensions as a key concern: “For example, the so-called tariff war between the U.S. and Europe — no one knows how it will evolve. This uncertainty creates stress not only for businesses in Georgia, but globally. Every day brings a new statement, a new event, and none of it helps to foster a sense of stability.”
In an interview with BMGTV, Mshvidobadze also shared insights on the company's performance over the first five months of the year. While international sales are on track, he noted that challenges remain in the domestic market.
