The Georgian Parliament has adopted amendments to the Waste Management Code, introducing stricter regulations and higher fines for businesses.
The changes, prepared by the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, aim to strengthen environmental supervision and improve compliance with Extended Producer Obligation (EPR) requirements.
The amendments introduce clearer and tougher sanctions for companies operating under EPR rules.
Operating without registration will now result in fines of GEL 1,500 for placing up to 10 tons of non-hazardous waste on the market, and GEL 5,000 for failing to register in the EPR system.
Violations of reporting requirements, including submitting incomplete or incorrect information, will carry a GEL 2,000 fine.
Failure to submit an agreed action plan within the legally defined timeframe will result in a GEL 10,000 penalty.
Distributors who violate technical regulations will also face fines of GEL 2,000.
The law aims to ensure that producers and distributors fulfill their obligations more effectively. It also introduces regulations for the temporary storage of specific types of waste, including catalysts, asbestos, ash, and slag.
Particular attention is given to vehicle catalysts. With a ban on their export in force until May 1, 2026, the amendments remove previous restrictions related to their temporary storage.
The law also introduces an incentive mechanism: fines paid within 10 days will be reduced by 20%, in line with existing provisions under the Code of Administrative Offenses.
The Department of Environmental Supervision will be responsible for enforcing the new regulations.
The law will enter into force upon publication.
