MINISTRY OF ECONOMY
AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
OF GEORGIA

 “Liberalization of services trade is a key priority for Georgia as we continue to integrate into the global economy. By reducing barriers to trade in services, we are enabling greater market access for our businesses and attracting more investment in crucial sectors such as ICT, finance, logistics, and tourism. This process of liberalization has been facilitated by our Free Trade Agreements, which include comprehensive chapters on services, allowing for enhanced cooperation and market opportunities,” – the First Vice Prime Minister, Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development Levan Davitashvili said in his speech at the official opening of the China International Fare for Trade in Services (CIFTIS). According to Davitashvili, the current exhibition in the Chinese capital is one of the largest profile events in the world and is a good opportunity for the development of cooperation for public as well as private sectors.

The First Vice Prime Minister stated that by implementing the free trade agreements, which include both goods and services trade directions, the Government of Georgia promotes the creation of new jobs and sustainable economic growth in both traditional and emerging service sectors. “The importance of services cannot be overstated. They are the backbone of economic growth, job creation, and innovation, driving global trade and shaping the future of development. The opportunities in services are vast, ranging from digital trade to tourism, from education to environmental services, and underscoring the critical role of services in every aspect of modern life,” – Levan Davitashvili noted.

The First Vice Prime Minister also drew attention to the importance of cooperation with China in the direction of trade in services, including within the framework of the “Belt and Road” initiative. Levan Davitashvili attached special importance to the Free Trade Agreement with China signed in 2017, which was one of the first free trade agreements between China and a country in our region. Davitashvili noted that the agreement, which significantly strengthened the trade and investment flows between the two countries, promoted cooperation in such sectors as telecommunications, financial services, tourism, etc. “The Free Trade Agreement is a proof of the growing strategic partnership between Georgia and China, and we plan to deepen this cooperation in the future,” – Levan Davitashvili said.

As the First Vice Prime Minister noted, Georgia has established FTAs with comprehensive chapter on services with the European Union, the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), Turkey, Hong Kong China and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). These agreements have expanded Georgia’s market access and facilitated the growth of trade in services with a diverse range of global partners. They reflect Georgia’s strategic vision of becoming a key hub for trade in the region, particularly in services that are crucial for today’s digital and interconnected world. For this purpose, Georgian Government is embracing digital transformation and investing in infrastructure, innovation, and education to ensure that the economy remains competitive and well-positioned to participate in the global marketplace of the future.

In his speech, Levan Davitashvili focused on Georgia's strategic location, which provides an opportunity to promote international trade in services and investments. “Given the growing need to diversify supply chains, the Middle Corridor is increasingly recognized as a viable alternative, offering shorter travel times and broader access to various regions and markets. As improving transport connectivity is crucial for enhancing Europe-Asia trade, Georgia is undertaking significant infrastructure projects across all transport modes, including the modernization of the East-West Highway and Railway. The development of both existing and new port infrastructure is of a high priority,” – Davitashvili added.

“International cooperation in trade in services is more important now than ever. The challenges we face, require us to work together, share knowledge, and create solutions that benefit us all. CIFTIS provides the perfect platform for this, and Georgia is proud to be part of this dynamic exchange,” – the Firs Vice Prime Minister summarized.