Georgia is located between Europe, Asia, Russia, and the Near East, and has the potential for more international cooperation in horticulture. Although still in a transition since the fall of the Soviet Union, the current economic figures and future predictions are positive. Fruit crops (pome and stone fruit, grapes and berries), nuts, and vegetables are leading cash crops. Hazelnuts, mandarins, and peaches are the leading export commodities, and berries and other types of nuts (almonds, pistachios) are runners-up. Exports find their way to various regional markets. Georgia is WTO member, has an Association Agreement with the EU, and has preferential arrangements and free trade agreements with many trading blocs worldwide.
Small scale and climate change challenge Georgia’s horticulture
Georgia’s horticulture is traditionally characterized by seasonality and small scale in production and trade. Moreover, global climate change affects Georgia, resulting in increasing uncertainties and risks in crop production. Therefore, modernization all over the supply chain is high on the agenda, aiming to implement advanced production methods and management. This modernization has started, but more is needed.
Opportunities for the Dutch horticulture sector
A new generation of farmers and investors as well as the supplying industry, often based on ties with reputable international partners, are taking active positions. The 4 most promising opportunities for the Dutch horticulture sector to start or increase business are in the fruit and nuts sector, the greenhouse sector, in climate-smart agriculture/water management, and in the education and training sector.
Are you active in the international horticultural sector and would you like to know more about your opportunities in the Georgian market? Then take part in the webinar at the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO.nl) on 13 October.
Georgia is strategically located on the fringes of Europe and Asia, and close to markets in Russia, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Georgia has a rich horticultural tradition and although the country is still in transition since the fall of the Soviet Union, the current economic figures and the future predictions are favorable.
Market research: opportunities for Dutch businesses
A study that the Dutch embassy in Tbilisi has carried out together with the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) shows that there are particular opportunities for Dutch companies in:
1. the open field fruit and nuts sector: from the cultivation and post-harvest phase to trade and distribution
2. greenhouse cultivation of vegetables and ornamental plant products
3. technology and services in the field of Climate Smart Agriculture /water management
4. knowledge services (training and education)
For whom?
The opportunity webinar and the matchmaking are interesting for companies and (knowledge) institutions that are active in horticulture and that may or may not already have experience in Georgia or in the region. You will receive information about developments and opportunities in all sub-sectors of Georgian horticulture. You will learn which players are active in the sector and you will have plenty of opportunities to get in touch with interested companies in Dutch solutions.
Webinar participation
Register by sending an e-mail to info@bureauleeters.nl. The deadline for registration is 11 October and participation is free. The language is English.
Program
15:00 - 15:05 Opening and introduction of presenters by (RVO / Leontine Loudon)
15:05 - 15:15 Introduction Georgia / Georgian horticulture by EKN (ambassador) and MEPA
15:15 - 15:45 Presentation of the main results of the study by Jos Leeters – Bureau Leeters
For Dutch participants in the Dutch language
15:45 - 16:15 Answers to pre-submitted questions and Q&A
16:15 - 16:30 Next steps (matchmaking explanation)
16:30 Closing
Matchmaking
After you have shown interest, either TBSC Consulting (Georgia) or Bureau Leeters (Netherlands) will contact you to map out your profile and partner wishes through a simple intake. On the Georgian side, we have an extensive database of companies and organizations. Based on your profile with your specific objectives and wishes, we approach Georgian organizations and we plan one or more individual and tailor-made online appointments (sales pitches), of course in consultation with you.
The scheduled appointments will take place on October 26, 27, or 28.