Georgia wine exports in H1 driven by Russian demand

Georgian wine exports in the first half of the year have recorded double-digit growth in both volume and value, driven by bullish demand from Russia, and new markets in countries such as Japan.

The ancient winemaking country’s exports from January to June rose by 21% year-on-year to 38.2 million bottles, while its value jumped 28% to US$90.3 million, according to figures released by its official wine trade organisation, National Wine Agency.

Russia still remains the country’s biggest export market with more than 24 million bottles of Georgian wines shipped during the period, followed by Ukraine (4.19 million bottles), China (2.9 million bottles), Kazakhstan (1.65 million bottles) and Poland (1.57 million bottles).

China briefly surpassed Ukraine to become its second biggest export market last year, but its ranking has slid to third place during the first half of the year.

The two countries’ Free Trade Agreement has become effective since January this year.

Other countries, such as Japan, the Czech Republic, Kyrgyzstan and South Korea, have registered “remarkable” growth despite a smaller base.

In addition to wine, the country exported 8.4 million bottles (0.5 litres) of brandy to 20 countries worldwide, which is 23% higher than the same period last year. Exported brandy amounted to US$17million, a year-on-year increase of 6%.