Winiveria and Gianiani co-founder Gia Piradashvili has sharply criticized the government’s plan to introduce a permit system for planting vineyards. Speaking on TV-program “Analytics,” he questioned the timing of the initiative, saying there are “far more important issues” facing the sector. Piradashvili added that he generally opposes regulations that create barriers for business.
He argued that the state is moving ahead without establishing basic rules. “Sometimes it feels like we’re putting a child who should be going to kindergarten directly into a university auditorium,” he said, noting that the framework exists but the specific requirements remain unknown.
Recent amendments to the Law on Vine and Wine will require farmers to obtain approval from the National Wine Agency before planting new vineyards starting May 1. The agency, previously only a supervisory body, will now regulate market entry. Those who plant vineyards without permission will be unable to sell their grapes or wine, while existing vineyards are exempt. Criteria for obtaining the permit will be defined in a ministerial order expected before May.
Piradashvili stressed that responsible farmers already analyze soil and land conditions before planting and rely on qualified foreign laboratories, as local capabilities remain limited. He added that many nurseries depend on imported French, German, and Italian rootstocks, which continue to form the foundation of vineyard development in Georgia.
