Blueberry Production in Georgia Exemplifies State–Private Sector Success, Says Minister Songulashvili
David Songulashvili, Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, visited the village of Zeda Etseri in Zugdidi Municipality, where he inspected the blueberry preparation process at the modern enterprise operated by Gentry Investment LLC. He was accompanied by Giorgi Darchia, Director of the Rural Development Agency.
“The growing production of blueberries is a very good example of the success achieved through cooperation between the state and the private sector,” said Songulashvili.
“Today, cultivation covers up to 2,800 hectares, and expansion continues. Despite spring frost damaging part of the crop this year, export volumes are 36% higher compared to the same period last year. The value of exported blueberries reached 40.5 million USD. This growth not only supports local demand but also generates tens of millions in export revenue—raising incomes and improving the well-being of the population.”
Gentry Investment LLC established its enterprise with significant state support. The company received a 350,000 GEL grant from the Rural Development Agency and over 4 million GEL in preferential agrocredit. In 2025, the enterprise is expected to process around 350 tons of blueberries. The facility integrates a blueberry orchard and processing factory, employing 30 permanent and 400 seasonal workers.
The company currently exports to Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, and Russia, and this year will expand to new markets including Dubai, India, Hong Kong, Israel, and Singapore.
Nationwide, preferential agrocredit issued for the primary production of blueberries exceeds 198 million GEL, while the Rural Development Agency’s co-financing has reached 90 million GEL. Through the “Instill the Future” orchard program, 2,700+ hectares of blueberry plantations have been co-financed with 39.8 million GEL.
The Minister was joined by Deputy Minister Kakha Kakabadze, Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti Regional Representative David Verava, Head of the National Food Agency Zurab Chekurashvili, and local self-government officials.
