EPI Report: Hazelnut Strategy Development

Georgia has a wide range of microclimates suitable for the cultivation of high-value agricultural products, such as hazelnuts, that have ready markets in numerous export markets. As Georgia is the 6th largest producer of in-shell hazelnuts globally, the 5th largest exporter of in-shell hazelnuts and the 3rd largest exporter of shelled hazelnuts, EPI can work with hazelnut producers and processors to leverage these market opportunities. By introducing a strategy that includes productivity increases, product quality improvements, food safety assurances and marketing activities, EPI can establish a model of highly productive hazelnut production and processing that satisfies the food safety requirements of high-value export markets. By doing so, EPI will directly contribute to industry growth, increased farm revenues, higher export sales and values and new job creation.