Overview of Georgia’s Trade Agreements and Regimes
Georgia has established a diverse range of trade agreements and regimes with numerous countries and economic blocs to facilitate its integration into the global economy. These agreements are aimed at enhancing Georgia’s trade relations, lowering tariffs, and promoting economic cooperation.
By establishing a network of preferential trade agreements, Georgia offers businesses and investors unparalleled access to key markets, including the European Union, China, and regional partners. These agreements lower tariffs, reduce barriers, and create a business-friendly environment, making Georgia an attractive destination for companies looking to expand their global footprint.
With streamlined regulations and simplified customs procedures, Georgia ensures smooth market entry for goods and services, fostering a climate of economic growth and innovation. For investors, Georgia’s comprehensive trade framework not only enhances export opportunities but also strengthens the country’s role as a gateway between Europe and Asia, offering unique advantages for businesses looking to scale and access new markets.
Most Favored Nations (MFN)
Georgia, as a member of the WTO, engages in trade with other WTO members (164 countries) based on the MFN principle, ensuring non-discriminatory treatment among trade partners.
Generalized System of Preferences (GSP)
The GSP reduces tariffs on goods from developing countries, improving their access to developed markets. Georgia benefits from the GSP regime of the USA, Japan, and Canada.
Free Trade Regime
This regime eliminates customs duties between parties. Georgia has free trade agreements with CIS countries, Turkey, the EU, China, and EFTA members. Exceptions and specific rules apply to some partners like Russia and Uzbekistan. More details on free trade agreements can be found here.
Free Trade Agreement with China
The free trade agreement between Georgia and China includes provisions for the elimination of customs duties and sector-specific commitments.
Find the full text of the agreement here.
Free Trade Agreement with EFTA
Georgia signed a free trade agreement with EFTA (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland) in 2016, which entered into force in 2018.
Read the agreement here.
Free Trade Agreement with Hong Kong, China
Georgia’s agreement with Hong Kong covers a wide range of trade areas, including services, rules of origin, and reservations. See more here.
Strategic Partnership and Cooperation Agreement with the UK
This agreement is signed in 2019, governs trade and cooperation between Georgia and the UK after Brexit. More on the agreement here.
Multilateral Free Trade Agreements
Georgia participates in multilateral agreements like the CIS Free Trade Zone (1994) and the GUAM Free Trade Zone (2002). The EU-Georgia Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) agreement has been in force since 2014.
WTO Agreements
- GATT: Aims to reduce trade barriers.
- GATS: Sets rules for international trade in services.
- TRIPS: Protects intellectual property rights.
- TBT: Ensures technical regulations avoid trade barriers.
- SPS: Ensures sanitary measures do not restrict trade unfairly.
Georgia’s trade agreements provide businesses and investors with seamless access to global markets, reducing barriers and promoting growth. These agreements strengthen Georgia's position as a strategic hub for international trade, opening new opportunities for economic development and partnerships.
Author: Svanidze Melano
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