Economist Beso Namchavadze spoke about the restrictions for voting in parliamentary elections for Georgian citizens outsude the country and their "unintended role" in macroeconomics on the air of "Commersant" radio.
As reported, in 2025, Georgian emigrants living in various countries worldwide have already transferred approximately $3 billion, and in Beso Namchavadze’s words, this figure is expected to increase to $3.5 billion by the end of the year.
„Remittances are one of the largest sources of income for Georgia, second in revenue only to tourism.
This year, revenues will reach $3.5 million, of which 99% are transfers from Georgian emigrants. This is perhaps the only source of livelihood for hundreds of thousands of Georgian families. Not only their families depend on these people, but also the country's macroeconomy. Those who send money may not
think about the macroeconomy, but whether they want to or not, they still have an impact on the economy," says Beso Namchavadze.
"According to him, if it weren't for remittances from emigrants, USD1 wouldn't be set at 2.7 GEL and would cost around GEL 4-5 or more.
"It would be ideal if there were jobs in Georgia, and these people wouldn't have to leave, but unfortunately, that's the reality. Investments poured into the country might not reach the families of ordinary citizens. These remittances from emigrants go directly to families with average and low incomes," Beso Namchavadze stresses.
