Market
Almonds in Georgia are an import-supplied nut category with an emerging domestic orchard and processing base. UN Comtrade data (via WITS) indicates Georgia was a net importer in 2023 for shelled almonds (HS 080212), with imports led by the United States and smaller volumes from Turkey and Spain. At the same time, Georgia recorded export flows of shelled and in-shell almonds to regional markets (notably Kazakhstan, Armenia, Uzbekistan, and the UAE), suggesting a developing regional supply role. Recent large-scale orchard investments and new/expanded processing facilities in Kvemo Kartli and Kakheti underpin the sector’s growth narrative.
Market RoleNet importer with emerging domestic production and regional exports
Domestic RoleDomestic consumption market primarily supplied by imports, with growing local orchards feeding domestic processors
Market GrowthGrowing (2019–2026 investment cycle)capacity buildout in orchards and processing
SeasonalityCommercial orchards report spring flowering (late March) and late-summer ripening/harvest (late August), with timing dependent on variety and site conditions.
Risks
Food Safety HighAflatoxin contamination is a trade-critical risk for almonds and other tree nuts; inadequate drying, pest/damage, or poor storage moisture control can lead to non-compliance, shipment rejection, or recalls in regulated markets.Implement Codex-recommended controls across orchard, harvesting, sorting, drying, and storage; use moisture-controlled storage and risk-based aflatoxin testing prior to shipment.
Regulatory Compliance MediumFor imports into Georgia, products subject to phytosanitary control may require an NFA import permit and a phytosanitary certificate; missing or mismatched documentation can trigger delays, additional inspection, or refusal of entry.Confirm whether the HS line is subject to phytosanitary control; secure NFA permit (when required) and ensure phytosanitary certificate alignment with shipment details before dispatch.
Climate MediumSpring frost and variable flowering timing can materially affect yields in Georgia’s emerging almond sector; operators emphasize late-flowering varieties to reduce exposure, but weather variability remains a supply risk.Prioritize late-flowering, self-fertile varieties; apply site selection and frost-risk management (orchard design, monitoring, contingency sourcing) for contracted volumes.
Logistics MediumGeorgia’s almond exports are oriented toward regional markets (Central Asia and neighboring countries), where multi-country transit and corridor disruptions can increase lead times and working-capital costs.Build buffer into delivery schedules, pre-book multimodal routes where possible, and diversify market destinations and logistics providers to reduce single-corridor dependency.
Sustainability- Water stewardship and irrigation dependence in intensive almond orchards (drip irrigation highlighted by large orchard operators)
Labor & Social- No product-specific labor controversy for Georgian almonds was identified in the consulted sources; standard agricultural labor due diligence (worker safety, fair recruitment, grievance mechanisms) remains relevant.
FAQ
Which documents are commonly required for phytosanitary border control when importing almonds into Georgia?For goods subject to phytosanitary control, Georgia Revenue Service lists a phytosanitary certificate as a required document, and notes that an import permit for products of plant origin may also be required. Shipments are then subject to documentary and identity checks, plant health control, and sampling when applicable.
Who issues the import permit for plant-origin products under phytosanitary control in Georgia?Georgia’s National Food Agency (NFA) issues import permits for products of plant origin subject to phytosanitary control, and states that applications are submitted electronically and permits can be issued for up to six months.
Is Georgia a net importer or exporter of almonds?Trade data via the World Bank’s WITS (UN Comtrade) indicates Georgia was a net importer of shelled almonds (HS 080212) in 2023, importing about USD 4.88 million while exporting about USD 3.23 million; Georgia also imported in-shell almonds (HS 080211).