Minister of Environment Protection and Agriculture Otar Shamugia, along with State Governor of Imereti Zviad Shalamberidze and Rural Development Agency Director Davit Tsitlidze, visited the blueberry garden of Agroveli in Gochajikhaishi village, Khoni municipality, to observe the harvesting process.
Shamugia stated they are meeting with farmers to understand their needs and provide support during the active blueberry harvesting season.
“This year, blueberry production and export are expected to double, potentially generating GEL 100-120 million in export income for farmers and entrepreneurs,” he stated.
Irakli Pirtskhalashvili, founder of Agroveli LLC, emphasized the importance of state programs for their success. The company owns a 32-hectare blueberry plantation and expects a harvest of 120-130 tons in 2024. They have already exported 55 tons to Europe and employ 20 permanent and 300 seasonal workers.