Blueberry cultivation in Georgia began in earnest in 2019, and within just a few years, the industry expanded ninefold, driven by both local and international demand.
"In 2019, a few friends and I decided to start blueberry plantations, recognizing the product's potential and profitability. We acquired 21 hectares of land in the Khoni municipality and embarked on gradual development. Initially, our focus was on gaining experience. Today, we have fully utilized this area, growing 55,000 blueberry plants of various types," says Grigol Mandaria, Commercial Director of Khoni Plantations LLC.
Blueberry demand is seasonal, with prices fluctuating throughout the year. Georgian blueberries are increasingly making their mark on the international market, aided by the country's favorable climatic conditions. Georgia's harvest season aligns with a gap in the European market, making it an ideal supplier.
To extend the production season despite favorable natural conditions, local producers like Khoni Plantations employ various techniques. This includes planting different blueberry varieties that yield crops at different times. Additionally, Khoni Plantations is not solely reliant on natural conditions.
"We prioritize extending our production period. To achieve this, we invested in a greenhouse where we've planted approximately 2,500 early seedlings, with the first harvest expected next year," Mandaria explains.
One of the biggest challenges in Georgian blueberry production is its relative newness in the country. The level of expertise is still developing, so Khoni Plantations regularly brings in foreign professionals to train local staff and enhance their skills. This effort has led to the employment of around 100 local individuals across various roles.
Interest in Georgian blueberries is growing annually in European markets, necessitating substantial financial investments to meet high standards. To ensure product quality, the company has established a cold storage and sorting facility equipped with modern infrastructure. Solar panels have also been installed, making production more eco-friendly and reducing operational costs.
"As with any business, having a reliable, strong financial partner is crucial. For us, Terabank provides fast, flexible, and customized services that support our growth," Mandaria notes.
This year, Khoni Plantations sold 95% of its blueberries to European countries, a significant achievement that fuels further expansion plans. The company aims to cultivate an additional 10 hectares with new blueberry varieties and establish a small-scale processing facility to produce juices and jams from their blueberries.
Contact Information
Eco-Friendly Cottages in the Mountainous Region of Racha
Racha is a beloved destination for both local and international tourists, known for its stunning natural beauty and historical monuments. As interest in this region grows, so does the number of hotels and eco-cottages, reflecting a booming tourism sector.
