As part of the visit to the Imereti region, the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, David Songulashvili, visited "Akhali Zekari" (New Zekari) LLC, an enterprise established with the support of the Rural Development Agency, in Baghdati Municipality.

During the visit, the Minister toured the company’s facilities and learned about its winemaking operations, fruit and bay leaf processing, and advanced production capabilities.

"Imereti stands among Georgia`s premier agri-food production regions, producing high-quality agricultural products. Therefore, it is essential to see firsthand the processes and meet the people whose dedication and commitment form the foundation of this success", - said David Songulashvili.

"Akhali Zekari" operates in the fields of winemaking and the processing of fruit and bay leaves. The enterprise has an annual production capacity of 200 tonnes of bay leaves, 30 tonnes of processed fruit, and 10,000 bottles of wine. Its products are marketed both domestically and internationally, with exports reaching China. The company provides permanent employment for 8–10 people.

The company is a beneficiary of the Rural Development Agency. In 2022–2023, the company received financing under the Agency’`s Preferential Agro Credit Project to construct a fruit processing enterprise. In 2024, it also benefited from the Agency`s Technical Assistance Programme, receiving GEL 11,500 in co-financing.

The Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Giorgi Tskrialashvili; the Delegate representing the municipalities of Tkibuli, Terjola, Zestaponi, and Baghdati, Zviad Shalamberidze; the Director of the Rural Development Agency, Zurab Gozalishvili; the Head of the National Food Agency, Giorgi Iakobashvili; and representatives of the local authorities accompanied the Minister.