Georgian Economy Minister, China’s Minister of Commerce discuss strengthening economic cooperation

Mariam Kvrivishvili, the minister of economy and sustainable development of Georgia, on Wednesday met with China’s minister of commerce Wang Wentao in Beijing, where the sides discussed strengthening economic relations and expanding Georgian exports to the Chinese market.

The two ministers signed a protocol introducing amendments to the free trade agreement between Georgia and China.

The updates aim to align the agreement with modern trade requirements, clarify cooperation areas, and add new directions.

Both sides emphasised the growing strategic partnership between the two countries and noted that economic relations have significantly expanded in recent years.

In particular, it was highlighted that in the first quarter of 2026, trade turnover increased by 55%, with China currently ranking as Georgia’s third-largest trading partner and its leading export market.

The discussions also focused on increasing Georgian exports to China, supporting competitiveness programs, and attracting Chinese investment in sectors such as transport and logistics, infrastructure, and energy.

Tourism cooperation was another key topic, with officials noting a 49% increase in visitors from China in early 2026.

This growth was linked to expanded direct flights and visa-free travel introduced in 2024, with two Chinese airlines now operating 10 weekly flights to Georgia.

The meeting also underlined the importance of strengthening connectivity between Asia and Europe and expanding cargo flows along the Middle Corridor route.