Starting in 2026, the state will no longer subsidize the purchase of non-standard apples, the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture reports.

According to the Ministry, continuing the program is inconsistent with the sector's long-term development goals and may indirectly perpetuate the production of low-quality fruit. Instead of subsidizing non-standard apples, support is being redirected toward establishing modern orchards and producing high-quality fruit.

"A key factor driving this change is the expansion of intensive orchard acreage. Under the 'Plant the Future' program, approximately 2,600 hectares of intensive apple orchards have been established in Georgia.

Furthermore, subsidizing non-standard apples encouraged the retention of low-yield, aging orchards, hindered the adoption of new technologies and modern agronomic practices, and increased the risk of disease spread. For this reason, through the state agro-co-financing program launching on July 1, 2026, the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture is continuing to support farmers in establishing modern orchards. The program provides for co-financing 50% of the costs incurred by farmers for planting new orchards. It also supports the processing of primary agricultural products, including those in the apple sector.

The end of the subsidy does not mean an end to the procurement of non-standard apples. At a meeting held on September 1, 2026, with apple concentrate manufacturers, the companies confirmed their readiness to accept and process non-standard apples. The purchase price will be determined based on prevailing market conditions,” reads the statement.