The "Inclusive Access to Markets" (IA2M) project aims to enhance the competitiveness of Georgian SMEs in EU and European markets. Under this initiative, UNDP commissioned the ISET Policy Institute to conduct a study to identify sectors with high growth and export potential. The objective of the study is to analyze existing research materials and data to identify at least six promising sectors or subsectors.
In an online international panel discussion hosted on December 22 at 2 PM, the ISET Policy Institute delved into the economic implications of Georgia being granted EU candidate status. The event, titled 'What economic benefits should Georgia expect after receiving EU candidate status?' sought to address the question that has captured broad professional and public interest since the historic decision on December 14.
As Georgia advances on its path toward European Union (EU) candidacy, the anticipated economic benefits, increased foreign investment, and alignment with European standards present a promising trajectory, worthy of further attention within the following article. The granting of European Union candidate status is a significant political signal, one which represents an initial step towards acknowledging that a candidate country is on the path towards eventual EU membership.
This policy brief addresses risks tied to Russian business ownership in Georgia. The concentration of this ownership in critical sectors such as electricity and communications makes Georgia vulnerable to risks of political influence, corruption, economic manipulation, espionage, sabotage, and sanctions evasion. To minimize these risks, it is recommended to establish a Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) screening mechanism for Russia-originating investments, acknowledge the risks in national security documents, and implement a critical infrastructure reform.
In a collaborative effort between the ISET Policy Institute, Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, the Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies, and Bertelsmann Stiftung, a public discussion titled "Keeping Friends Closer: Why the EU should address new geo-economic realities and deepen partnerships with its neighbors" took place on 28th November 2023, at ISET.