Wood packaging import rules: Georgia

ISPM 15 on imports

Required

Enforced since

2015

Treatments

HT, MB, DH, SF per ISPM 15

Plant protection authority

National Food Agency (NFA) of Georgia

Common pallet sizes

1200 × 800 mm (EUR)
1200 × 1000 mm

Main ports

Poti, Batumi, Kulevi, Supsa

Overview

Georgia regulates wood packaging through Government Resolution No. 477 of 2015, which sets requirements for wood packaging material in line with ISPM 15; the resolution is recorded in the FAOLEX legal database, so 2015 is given as the start year for the national rule, although earlier voluntary or informal practice may have existed. The National Food Agency acts as the national plant protection organisation and conducts phytosanitary control at border points. The details of penalties and later amendments were not checked, and importers should confirm current practice with the Agency. Georgia's location on the Black Sea gives it a role as a transit state. Poti and Batumi handle the bulk of containers and general cargo, and Kulevi and Supsa serve oil and bulk liquids. Cargo crossing Georgia on the so-called Middle Corridor between Europe and Central Asia, or going to Armenia and Azerbaijan, can include wood packaging that must meet the rules while it is in transit. The country also imports heavily from Türkiye by road via Sarpi, and from Azerbaijan and Armenia. Findings of non-compliant packaging may lead to treatment, destruction or return. In the pallet market, the 1200 × 800 mm EUR pallet is common in modern retail and in goods from Europe and Türkiye, while 1200 × 1000 mm pallets are used with industrial goods. Pooling services are limited.

Key points

• Government Resolution No. 477 of 2015 on wood packaging material is the legal basis (FAOLEX record)
• Georgia has a DCFTA with the EU and is aligning plant health law
• Poti and Batumi are the Black Sea gateways for the Middle Corridor to Central Asia
• Penalty levels and current amendments not verified

Frequently asked questions

Sources

1. FAOLEX / LEAP – Resolution No. 477/2015 of the Georgian Government on wood packaging
2. National Food Agency of Georgia

Import rules change. Confirm current requirements with the national plant protection organization or your importer before shipping. This page is general information, not legal advice.