Elguja Jamagidze, founder of Robani Motors and Auto, says the rise in car imports from China is mainly driven by large companies stocking showrooms and warehouses rather than strong consumer demand. He considers the trend temporary, predicting that Chinese vehicle imports could decline by spring.
Jamagidze said Chinese imports have limited potential to boost re-exports, as Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan have direct access to China. He also noted that branded Chinese vehicles remain relatively expensive, meaning local consumers may continue to favor American and European brands. He expects a gradual reduction in Chinese subsidies for hybrid and electric vehicle production to affect supply.
Meanwhile, declining car imports from the US are linked to local regulations and rising fuel prices. Jamagidze also pointed to increased competition at American vehicle auctions, where more US dealers are bidding for used cars, reflecting stronger domestic demand.
According to preliminary trade data, Georgia’s passenger car imports fell 13.3% year-on-year to $2.6 billion in January–September. Despite the decline, cars remained the country’s largest import category, accounting for 18.4% of total imports.
