Georgia Introduces Approval Requirement for Commercial Vineyard Planting Starting May 2026

Only those planning to engage in commercial activities will be required to obtain approval for planting vineyards, which—based on current trends—will affect up to 100 potential producers.

“The wine quality reform is aimed at strengthening Georgia’s wine industry, supporting the development of both wine companies and small cellars. The goal of the reform is to produce high-quality Georgian wine starting from high-quality raw materials. To achieve this, Georgia must have high-quality vineyards, which means that vineyard planting should be subject to regulations,” said Zurab Vacharadze, Deputy Chairman of the National Wine Agency.

According to amendments made to the Law of Georgia “On Vine and Wine,” starting from May 1, 2026, the establishment of commercial vineyards will only be permitted with the approval of the National Wine Agency.

It is important to emphasize that this requirement applies only to individuals planning commercial or entrepreneurial activities and does not affect those who intend to plant vineyards for personal use. Approval for vineyard planting will be issued free of charge by the National Wine Agency.

The regulation governing the establishment of commercial vineyards defines the principles and conditions related to planting, as well as the restoration and renewal of vineyards.

The establishment of a commercial vineyard includes planning, selection of grape varieties and rootstocks, soil preparation, planting of vines, and other agrotechnical measures necessary for the maintenance and development of the vineyard to ensure appropriate productivity.

According to data from the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV), global wine consumption is currently at its lowest level since 1961. Against the backdrop of intense competition and overproduction, the focus must be placed on the quality of both raw materials and the final product,” Vacharadze added.

At this stage, the pace of vineyard planting has slowed. According to recent statistics, up to 500 hectares of new vineyards are planted annually. Based on this data, the requirement to obtain approval for vineyard planting is expected to affect around 100 individuals.

Approval for vineyard planting is a standard practice in all European Union wine-producing countries.