Georgia’s government says its Efficiency Department, established to better oversight of public spending, delivered budget savings of GEL 67.4 million in 2025, primarily through tighter control of state procurement and program implementation.
The Government Administration stated that the department reviewed state programs and procurement processes totaling GEL 114.9 million over the year. Officials say its involvement helped identify inefficiencies, reduce risks and prevent unnecessary expenditures. Several cases containing potential criminal elements were also uncovered and referred to investigative authorities where inquiries are ongoing.
The Efficiency Department was created on the initiative of Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and has been headed by Guram Dumbadze since June 2024. Its work focuses largely on public procurement oversight, including monitoring planned and active tenders, analyzing risks and issuing recommendations to contracting authorities. The administration says this approach has improved competition and transparency in government purchasing.
In addition to procurement supervision, the department prepares risk assessments and guidance for spending agencies to help prevent negative outcomes in future projects. Government officials report that a number of questionable initiatives were flagged through this process and escalated to law enforcement.
At the same time, the government’s statement does not specify which ministries or agencies generated the reported savings, nor does it detail which programs were affected or how fully line ministries cooperated with the department. Moreover, a government decree adopted in May 2025 formally limits the department’s mandate mainly to a consultative role.
