As a result of the research, challenges and opportunities in the road safety and automotive industry were identified. Essential issues were identified that require immediate response and effective steps need to be taken to solve them. These issues include traffic safety concerns, existing unhealthy competition in the automotive industry, and the future potential of the Georgian automotive industry.

The results of the research conducted by 𝐑𝐈𝐈𝐓𝐈 show that the automotive industry has experienced a significant improvement of economic indicators in 2023 compared to previous years. However, the research also identified problems and challenges related to vehicle procurement, servicing and maintenance. Deficiencies revealed in state tenders deserve attention, which may cause the feeling of an unhealthy competitive environment. Therefore, it is crucial that tender procurements should place all bidders on a level playing field.

As you know, road safety is a matter of critical importance worldwide, as road accidents have the highest fatality rate. According to the data of 2023, every year the lives of approximately 1.19 million people are cut short as a result of a road traffic crash. Between 20 and 50 million more people suffer non-fatal injuries, with many incurring a disability.

In terms of road safety regulation, the following issues were highlighted: the need to improve the safety quality of road infrastructure; the necessity to work on preventive measures and raise public awareness to enhance traffic safety, considering road safety recommendations; the implementation of effective tools for the technical inspection of vehicles in accordance with international standards; ensuring access to well-maintained vehicles for safe and smooth movement.

Given that Georgia has experience in the automotive manufacturing industry (the “Kutaisi Automobile Plant” was operating in Georgia decades ago, producing not only civilian but also military equipment) and additionally, the governing authorities have expressed a clear willingness to create a nationally produced vehicle – growing potential for the development of the Georgian automotive industry is emphasized.

“𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐬𝐢𝐚𝐧 & 𝐆𝐮𝐥𝐟 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬’‘, acknowledging its high public responsibility, based on the conclusion of the Research Institute of International Trade and Investment (RIITI) and through collaboration with the public and business sectors, has decided to create a new sectoral committee. This committee will actively address challenges in the road safety and automotive industry through collaboration with the public and business sectors, aiming to make a significant contribution to problem resolution.

“Road Safety and Automotive Industry Committee” was established to ensure the implementation of the set goals. On the basis of the absolute majority of the votes of the presidium of the Business Chamber, a businessman with many years of experience and competence in the automotive industry – Gela Barkalaia, the founder of the multi-brand holding company MateMotors and “𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐚’𝐬 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐩”, was appointed as the chairman of the committee. The new committee has actively begun working on the main strategic document and organizational issues. It will pursue a policy of open mutual cooperation with all regional or international organizations and associations representing the public and private sectors, for whom road safety, identification of critical issues in the automotive industry, and facilitating their resolution are important.