MINISTRY OF ECONOMY
AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
OF GEORGIA

The Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, Natia Turnava, at the invitation of the People's Republic of China, took part online in the opening ceremony of the current third China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai. It should be noted that Natia Turnava is currently in self-isolation due to the infection with COVID-19 and is remotely performing her official duties.

CIIE is being held for the third time this year. In 2018-2019, Georgia was represented by a special pavilion and a stand of several dozen Georgian companies. In 2020, Deputy Economy Minister, Gennadi Arveladze, also attended the online event.

“Against the background of the current pandemic due to the global problems created by COVID-19, the holding of import and export exhibitions in Shanghai is of paramount importance for the world economy, including Georgia. Last year, in 2019, 33 Georgian companies took part in the Shanghai Import Expo, which is an unprecedentedly high figure compared to other similar international exhibitions. The participation of Georgian companies in the Chinese import exhibition has made a significant contribution to promoting Georgian products, raising awareness of our country and, most importantly, increasing exports to the Chinese market,” – Turnava said, while speaking about the importance of the Shanghai exhibition.

Top officials, including the Presidents, as well as the Deputy PMs and Ministers, from more than 40 countries participated in the official opening of the 3rd China International Import Expo. In the opening part of the event, President of the People's Republic of China, Xi Jinping, addressed the high-level participants, highlighting the importance of restoring the global economy and the steps to be taken by China in this regard.

The main topic of this year's Expo is the protection of the principles of mutually beneficial cooperation and greater openness of economies. It was unanimously stated at the event that the Expo is the key platform in terms of international procurements, investment promotion, cultural exchange and cooperation.

According to recent data, the trade turnover between Georgia and China is characterized by increasing dynamics. In 2019, exports from Georgia to China increased by 12% compared to the same period last year and amounted to $223.13 million. As of the current data of 2020 (9 months), exports amount to $355.34 million (an increase of 184% over the same period last year), and China ranks first among the largest export markets in Georgia with a share of 14.8% in total export volume of Georgia.