Gela Samkharauli, the Chair of the Agrarian Issues Committee, convened a meeting with the representatives of the Business Association of Georgia Levan Vepkhvadze, Soso Pkhakadze and Akaki Sagirashvili. A central theme of the meeting was the state-business relationship, particularly in relation to the challenges faced by small entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector. The meeting discussed potential solutions, including employment opportunities and addressing the issue of manpower shortages.

“The state-business relations at different stages of a country’s development require revision. Cooperation mechanisms often need specification and improvement. Therefore, all business sector issues should be resolved jointly through parliamentary facilitation based on legislation. This will support business and, consequently, create more job opportunities, contributing significantly to the country’s economic growth, which was the objective of our meeting today”, - he stated.

According to him, it is imperative to establish additional mechanisms for agricultural sector entrepreneurs, particularly small businesses, enabling them to gain access to the market, including through the extensive market chains within the country.

“It is imperative that we place greater emphasis on local products to facilitate the expansion of manufacturing, foster economic growth, and enhance food provision”, - he stated.

As per his assessment, the state agencies and the business sector must identify common strategies to attract the interest of large market networks in facilitating the sale of local products.

As G. Samkharauli underlined, a special emphasis at the meeting was placed on the enforcement of the Law on Food Loss and Food Waste Reduction, and Food Donation.

“Market networks and businesses can greatly benefit from the food donation process, with the support of authorities to ensure that food for donation is timely supplied to beneficiaries. In my opinion, this is an endeavor that requires maximal state efforts”, - he added.