2016-10-19
178 companies participated in the purchase and processing of the grape harvest in Kakheti region; over 100 thousand tons of grapes were processed and the income of the residents of Kakheti region exceeded 97 million GEL, - Prime Minister of Georgia Giorgi Kvirikashvili summed up the results of the "Harvest 2016" during today's Government meeting.
The head of the Government commended the harvest and thanked the Ministry of Agriculture for this successful process.
As for the harvest in Racha-Lechkhumi, 24 companies purchased and processed the grapes. Over 500 tons of grapes were processed. The profits of the local residents exceeded 2.5 million GEL.
Over 19 000 farmers sold their harvest to the wine companies in both regions in 2016.
"It is noteworthy that we established a qualitatively novel program of subsidizing and agricultural loans that enabled the state to stimulate the wine industry in a correct manner. Importantly, the area covered by the vineyards is growing. It is also noteworthy that the quality and the appellations of origin, as well as correct development of the industry and worldwide export of branded wines are paid particular attention to. We will continue to work in this area. I am glad to see the increasing importance of the EU Association Agreement resulting in a growing number of exported goods to Europe," - the Prime Minister noted.
According to Giorgi Kvirikashvili, it is important that Georgian wine brands have entered traditional as well as new markets, including China. An agreement on introduction of a free trade has been reached with the respective country and the rates of the export of Georgian wine are increasing at a record-breaking speed.
"This is a completely sound process and I am glad to be observing it," - the head of the Government noted.
Prime Minister's Press Office