Levan Gogiberidze stated that the mandatory introduction of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards in Georgia has dramatically reduced the number of local pharmaceutical producers, leaving just four fully compliant companies. Previously, 51 manufacturers operated in the domestic market.
Gogiberidze explained that several companies are currently undergoing reconstruction to meet GMP requirements, as non-compliant firms are prohibited from selling on the Georgian market.
A major challenge for the industry is that Georgia’s GMP certification is not internationally recognized. The country’s regulatory authority is not a member of main global organizations, meaning that European and other international markets do not accept Georgian GMP certificates, restricting export opportunities for local producers.
“To improve access to international markets, joining organizations such as PIC/S should be a priority,” Gogiberidze said. “This would allow Georgian manufacturers to enter European markets more effectively while gradually adapting to rising GMP standards in Asia.”
The Pharmaceutical Association stresses that without international recognition, local companies face both domestic pressure to comply with GMP and limitations on foreign sales.
