Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze spoke at the opening of the 8th China International Import Expo in Shanghai on November 5, 2025, stressing his country’s growing position as a vital bridge between Europe and Asia. He pointed to stronger ties with China through trade deals, infrastructure projects, and the Belt and Road Initiative, as Georgia takes center stage as the guest of honor at the event.
Expo Opens with High-Level Attendance
Leaders from various nations gathered in Shanghai for the expo, which runs from November 5 to 10, 2025. This major trade fair draws thousands of companies worldwide to showcase products and build partnerships.
Kobakhidze joined Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the opening ceremony, where Georgia featured three dedicated pavilions for national, entrepreneurial, and product displays. Over 40 Georgian companies presented items like wine, food, and tech innovations to highlight the nation’s culture and economy.
The event underscores China’s push for open trade amid global challenges. Attendees expect deals worth billions, boosting imports and economic ties.
Key Points from Kobakhidze’s Speech
In his address, Kobakhidze described Georgia as an increasingly important link in global supply chains. He tied this to the country’s location and ongoing projects that connect Asia and Europe.
He praised the free trade agreement with China, effective since 2018, which covers nearly 95 percent of Georgian exports. This deal has driven trade growth, with volumes hitting 1.6 billion dollars in the first nine months of 2025 alone.
Kobakhidze also noted sharp rises in cargo movement through the Middle Corridor, a route bypassing traditional paths and linking China to Europe via Georgia. This aligns with broader goals under the Belt and Road Initiative, which has funded ports, roads, and rail in the region.
He expressed readiness to handle more traffic, pointing to infrastructure upgrades like the Anaklia deep-sea port. These efforts aim to make Georgia a hub for efficient, sustainable trade.
Strengthening Trade and Investment Ties
Bilateral relations between Georgia and China have grown stronger since establishing a strategic partnership. Kobakhidze met with Li Qiang on November 4, 2025, to discuss deeper cooperation in trade, investment, and emerging fields like digital economy and new energy.
The talks focused on complementary economies, with China offering markets for Georgian goods and Georgia providing access to European routes. Recent data shows container shipments between the two nations jumped 71 percent from January to August 2025, reaching about 12,000 units.
This growth reflects broader trends, as global trade recovers from disruptions like supply chain issues in recent years. Georgia’s role helps diversify routes, reducing reliance on volatile paths affected by conflicts or sanctions.
Experts see this as part of China’s strategy to expand influence through initiatives like Belt and Road, which has invested over a trillion dollars worldwide since 2013. For Georgia, it means jobs, technology transfers, and economic stability.
- Trade Milestone: Free trade agreement boosted exports by covering most goods without tariffs.
- Cargo Surge: Middle Corridor traffic up significantly, enhancing connectivity.
- Investment Focus: New areas include AI and green energy for mutual benefits.
- Cultural Exchange: Expo pavilions showcase Georgian traditions alongside business opportunities.
Infrastructure and Future Prospects
Georgia plans major upgrades to support its bridge role. Projects like expanded ports and rail links aim to handle rising cargo from China to Europe.
Kobakhidze highlighted “tangible results” from Belt and Road cooperation, including better connectivity and economic gains. He noted that these efforts build on ancient Silk Road ties, now modernized for today’s world.
Looking ahead, both sides aim to sign more memorandums at the expo to boost ties. This could lead to increased tourism, tech collaborations, and sustainable development.
| Key Trade Statistics (2025) | Details |
|---|---|
| Bilateral Trade Volume (Jan-Sep) | 1.6 billion dollars |
| Container Shipments Growth (Jan-Aug) | 71 percent increase |
| Free Trade Agreement Coverage | 95 percent of Georgian exports |
| Middle Corridor Containers | Up to 12,000 units |
Challenges and Broader Context
While ties strengthen, challenges remain. Some critics worry about debt from large projects or geopolitical tensions, given Georgia’s position near Russia and Europe.
Recent events, like global supply chain shifts post-pandemic, make diversified routes like the Middle Corridor more appealing. Georgia’s push comes amid its ambitions for EU integration, balancing Eastern and Western partnerships.
Analysts note that expos like this help small nations like Georgia gain visibility. With China’s economy growing at about 5 percent in 2025, opportunities for partners abound.
Kobakhidze’s visit builds on prior engagements, such as high-level talks in 2024, showing steady progress in relations.
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