National Gastronomy Agency Begins Operations Under the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture

Effective today, a new Legal Entity of Public Law (LEPL), the National Gastronomy Agency, has officially commenced operations within the system of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, in accordance with a resolution of the Government of Georgia.

The Agency has been established to protect, develop, and promote Georgia's gastronomic heritage, enhance its international recognition, and formulate and implement a unified state policy (strategy) for the gastronomy sector.

At this stage, the duties of the Agency's Head will be performed on an interim basis by Lasha Avaliani, Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture.

The National Gastronomy Agency will be responsible for researching, preserving, and promoting Georgia's gastronomic heritage; improving the relevant legal framework; ensuring effective coordination among government institutions, the private sector, and other stakeholders; and supporting the competitiveness of local products in both domestic and international markets.

The Agency's activities will contribute to regional development, the diversification of agriculture, and the commercialization of traditional local products. These efforts are expected to increase the incomes of rural communities, strengthen local production, and stimulate rural economic development.

The National Gastronomy Agency will also play an important role in enhancing Georgia's tourism potential, particularly in the fields of agri-tourism and gastronomy tourism. In addition, it will strengthen the protection and use of geographical indications (GIs) and designations of origin (DOs), helping to safeguard the quality, authenticity, and reputation of Georgian products while increasing consumer confidence.