MINISTRY OF ECONOMY
AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
OF GEORGIA

“We have signed an updated version of the Free Trade Agreement with China, which will further solidify trade and economic relations between the two countries,” – Mariam Kvrivishvili, Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development stated.

The Minister highlighted that the visit included high-level meetings with representatives of both the Chinese state and private sectors. Kvrivishvili placed special emphasis on the meeting held at the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) of China, where the parties agreed to establish a Georgia-China investment dialogue mechanism to facilitate Chinese investment.

“Together with the Minister of Commerce, I signed the updated Free Trade Agreement. Additionally, we made a pivotal decision to create an intergovernmental format that will support the attraction of major investments and the involvement of Chinese companies in strategic projects,” – Mariam Kvrivishvili noted.

The Minister also highlighted the meeting with the executives of China Eastern Airlines, resulting in the decision to launch direct flights starting July 15. Kvrivishvili noted that the Shanghai route, and the Chinese tourism market in general, is strategic for Georgia, as direct air services will increase tourist flows and attract high-spending visitors.

“This decision will stimulate the strengthening and diversification of our country’s tourism industry and generate additional income directly from the sector,” – Kvrivishvili added.

The visit also included meetings with China’s largest energy and automotive companies, where Georgia’s investment opportunities were discussed to encourage local production and bolster the energy sector.