However, according to the portal, importers of potato seeds had to pay more this year, as import prices in dollars increased by 10% compared to the level of March 2021, and by 25% compared to the average rate of March 2014-2021.

Seed potatoes are mainly imported from Europe and provide a quality crop, which is in demand among buyers. However, this year the cultivation of potatoes in Georgia has almost doubled compared to the previous season. Market participants say that production costs have increased significantly. For example, diesel fuel, herbicides and fertilizers used to grow potatoes have increased by 70-100% compared to 2021.

According to EastFruit, farmers in Kvemo Kartli, the second largest producing region in Georgia, have planted more potatoes than last year. It should be noted that potato planting has not yet begun in the largest producing region, Samtskhe-Javakheti. So, the costs have risen, but it still looks like production will rise as well. Farmers also believe that despite almost doubling costs, producing more potatoes is the right move, especially in the wake of the Ukraine war, which could undermine the food security in the region.

However, there are concerns that the overall quality may suffer due to the very high prices of consumables. Some farmers may not be able to do all the work as planned.