Meeting Held with Dairy Sector Representatives – Maximum Aflatoxin Levels in Raw Milk Among Key Topics

The Deputy Minister of Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, Lasha Avaliani, met with representatives of the dairy sector to discuss key issues related to sector development.

During the meeting, the Deputy Minister presented major initiatives planned for 2026, including the strengthening of control mechanisms for primary production and animal movement, as well as the phased introduction of a veterinary prescription system.

One of the key topics discussed was the maximum allowable level of aflatoxin in raw milk, along with mechanisms to encourage raw milk production.

“The meeting with sector representatives was held at the initiative of the dairy industry and included both primary producers and processors. We discussed several current issues and challenges facing the market and the sector as a whole. We also spoke about future plans, the implementation of which will begin this year and which will contribute both to the development of the local sector and to better informing the final consumer,” said Lasha Avaliani.

Representatives of the dairy sector positively assessed the format of the meeting, emphasizing that regular communication with the state and coordinated decision-making are essential to overcoming existing challenges in the sector.

“A productive meeting was held between the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture and representatives of the dairy industry. For us, as an association, this meeting is encouraging, especially in light of the initiative announced to establish permanent committees and working groups that will focus on the most pressing and relevant issues facing the sector. During the meeting, we also saw an important factor—the Ministry is ready, on the one hand, to present its vision and proposals for sector development and improved control mechanisms, and on the other hand, to listen to the problems and suggestions coming from the industry. We are confident that joint efforts will enable us to take successful and effective steps forward,” said Kakha Koniashvili, Head of the Association of Milk and Dairy Products Producers.

The meeting, held at the Ministry, was also attended by Giorgi Iakobashvili, Head of the National Food Agency; Nikoloz Beniaidze, Chair of the Dairy Farmers Association; and Ana Mikadze-Chikvaidze, Chair of the Cheese Producers Association.