Meat prices are set to go up in Georgia. The founder of "AgroKiziki" speaks about a global shortage of cattle and sharp price hikes in Russia and Belarus, Georgia's main raw meat suppliers.
Founder Beka Gonashvili says the wholesale purchase price of meat in Georgia ranges within 24–25 GEL, and it is expected to increase to at least 26–27 GEL in the nearest future.
In Gonashvili's words, price hikes might be slightly delayed due to disruptions in cattle exports to several countries, including Iraq, caused by the ongoing military situation in Iran. Georgia has been exporting live cattle through Iran to Iraq, but this route is currently blocked. However, he believes that a significant rise in prices during the summer is inevitable.
“There is a global deficit of large cattle. Prices in Russia have soared significantly; Uzbekistan is a major buyer and prices have risen there as well. In Europe, prices are up by around 30%. Therefore, my expectation is that prices in Georgia will definitely rise,” said Beka Gonashvili.
He added that the temporary halt in exports via Iran might slightly ease immediate price pressure, but not for long.
“Today, the wholesale price farmers get in Tbilisi is around 24 GEL - in some categories, up to 25 GEL. By July–August, the price will likely reach 26–27 GEL, at a minimum,” he pointed out.
