Georgia Introduces New Measures to Support Raw Milk Production and Improve Market Transparency
The Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia has held a working meeting to discuss a new action plan aimed at encouraging the production of raw milk and improving regulation of the dairy market. The meeting was attended by Minister David Songulashvili, representatives of the Association of Milk and Dairy Product Producers, and industry experts.
"Our approach is fully transparent, and we are open to discussion to ensure that the entire dairy value chain—from production to consumption—is regulated fairly and effectively. Our objective is to help consumers clearly distinguish between products and make informed purchasing decisions. We are not restricting any products; on the contrary, we are strengthening Georgia's dairy sector and supporting farmers in their development. It is equally important to improve both the supply and consumer markets while fostering the growth of modern dairy farms. We are increasing state support to help farmers transition from small-scale operations to more advanced and sustainable farming systems," said David Songulashvili.
As part of the reform, the Ministry plans to introduce a voluntary quality label (pictogram) that will identify products made from 100% Georgian raw milk, enabling consumers to make more informed choices.
The reform also предусматривает mandatory and clearly visible labeling of products containing vegetable fats, regardless of whether they are domestically produced or imported. These products will be displayed separately in retail stores to ensure greater transparency for consumers.
A key component of the action plan is the strengthening of state oversight. The National Food Agency will intensify inspections across the HoReCa sector, agricultural markets, and distribution networks. Relevant regulations will also be reviewed to prevent the improper use of registration statuses. In parallel, the government will promote traditional Georgian dairy products, including cheeses and matsoni, through greater recognition of their geographical indications (GI) and designations of origin (PDO).
Representatives of the Association of Milk and Dairy Product Producers expressed strong support for the initiative and pledged active participation in its implementation.
"We fully support this initiative and are ready to work together to ensure its successful implementation. It is essential to strengthen controls throughout the supply chain—from manufacturing facilities to retail markets—to eliminate cases of product adulteration. At the same time, it is important to maintain a balanced approach so that products meeting established standards are treated fairly, while greater emphasis is placed on promoting dairy products made from Georgian raw milk," said Kakha Koniashvili, Head of the Association.
The Ministry plans to implement the reform gradually to ensure the effective regulation of both organized retail chains and smaller retail outlets across the country.
