Publications

Georgia municipal liveability index

20 March 2025

Economic development of the municipalities (outside capital) is one of the key sustainable development challenges in Georgia. The capital city of Tbilisi, while accounting for nearly 1/3 of the country’s population generates 50% of GDP and keeps expanding, whereas the municipalities, with few exceptions, are losing population and suffering from high incidence of poverty, unemployment, and slow and weak economic development.

RIA SME test methodology and practical guide for Georgia

18 November 2024

This is a working note outlining the initial processes behind the SME Test Methodology. It is a notable deliverable part of the Developing an RIA SME Test Methodology for Georgia, while strengthening the capacity of the Government of Georgia to utilize SME RIA tools in practice Project, as funded by the UNDP and led by ISET Policy Institute.

Harris vs. Trump: what are the expected impacts on Georgia’s economy?

11 October 2024

The U.S. presidential election is one of the most consequential global political events, influencing not only internal American policies but also its relationships with countries worldwide. It has far-reaching implications beyond the American citizenry that affect international partners, including Georgia. As a small, strategically located country in the South Caucasus, Georgia’s economy is deeply intertwined with the geopolitical environment and under the support of key allies like the United States.

Persistent struggle: navigating the high food prices in Georgia

30 August 2024

Increases in food prices and their volatility are global challenges, particularly affecting import-dependent developing countries where spending on food is relatively high. While major concerns regarding price dynamics and volatility are typically driven by the physical availability and financial accessibility of food.

Health hidden costs of agri-food systems: drivers and policy lessons in the South Caucasus

22 July 2024

For the countries in the South Caucasus, health hidden costs amount to 87%, 88%, and 92% of the total quantified hidden costs of agri-food systems. In terms of the share in GDP, they subsequently comprise 18%, 16%, and 22%, respectively.

A novel hybrid forecasting model for Georgian GDP

10 April 2024

Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Georgia faced significant economic challenges, including political instability and conflicts. This resulted in a severe economic recession in the 1990s, with GDP contracting sharply.