Georgia replaces car import ban with increased excise for older vehicles, PM

Irakli Kobakhidze, Prime Minister of Georgia, has announced new regulations for vehicles over six years old, replacing a previous import ban with a higher excise tax of 4.5 GEL per cubic centimetre.

Speaking at a government meeting on Thursday, Kobakhidze said the move aimed to balance environmental protection with citizens’ and private sector interests.

“Instead of banning imports, vehicles older than six years will now be subject to a 4.5 GEL per cubic centimetre excise. This replaces the previous import prohibition,” he said. “The decision is important for protecting the environment, ensuring air quality, and takes into account the interests of both private businesses and our citizens, which has been widely discussed in society.”