Waste Not, Want Not Will Souring Russian-Turkish Comfort Food: An Relations Be a Boon for Introduction Georgia? 2016
Investor.geA Magazine Of The American Chamber Of Commerce In Georgia ISSUE 49 f e b.-mar.
EU Visa Liberalization: Georgia’s Ticket to Europe february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 3 Investor.ge content 6 Waste Not, Want Not There is a new effort to clean up illegal dumps and create modern waste management in georgia.
8 EU Visa Liberalization: Georgia’s Ticket helena bedwell speaks with producers, economists and government officials about what brussels’ visa-free regime could mean for the georgian economy.
11 Will Souring Russian-Turkish Relations Be a Boon for Georgia? Investor.ge spoke to government officials and economists to see if the georgian economy could benefit from the 14 crisis. 14 Winter in Georgia: Where to go, with skis or without Investor.ge has complied basic information about georgia’s four main skiing destinations – and some great sites for day trips.
18 Georgia Developing New Incentives to Attract Foreign Film Companies The economy ministry is betting on financial and technical assistance to bring more film shoots to georgia.
22 Building the Future: An Overview of Major 18 New Projects Planned In Tbilisi The tbilisi horizon is constantly changing, and with More major projects underway the skyline of georgia’s capital could look quite a bit different in a few years.
24 Georgia’s Hydro Boom New regulations and better infrastructure are attracting more investors to georgia.
27 The Keepers of the Dream: Abastumani’s Dedicated Astronomers The oldest astronomical observatory in the south caucasus is hidden on the top of the mountain above the 22 spa city of abastumani. 31 Comfort Food: An Introduction Amy binder, co-owner of ronny’s pizza, lays out a new kind of dinner party to enjoy in 2016.
34 BP Georgia’s Paralympic Champions Bp georgia is sponsoring three paralympic athletes for the 2016 games in rio
...... 38 38 NEWS
4 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 5 their waste in their backyards.” “What makes the recycling sector Waste Not, Gorkhelashvili is the communica- very difficult to develop is the absence of tions and outreach team manager for systemic waste separation, and so busi- the four-year Waste Management Tech- nesses need to find sources of recyclable Want Not nologies in Regions (WMTR) program, waste based on private arrangements financed by USAID and supported by the either with institutions or landfills,” she Caucasus Environmental NGO Network. said, noting that mixed waste is not good There is a new effort to The program focuses on helping for recycling. clean up illegal dumps Georgia improve its waste management “It is very hard to say how profitable and create modern and recycling programs. recycling is, or could be in Georgia. For waste management Gorkhelashvili said there have been this, we need accurate figures for waste in Georgia, the improvements over the years, and the production in the country. However, it Waste Management trend is being reinforced by Georgia’s should be noted that there are small/ Technologies in obligations under the EU-Georgia As- medium-sized companies that operate Regions (WMTR) sociation Agreement. in the waste-recycling sector in Georgia project. Investor.ge Part of that trend is the new Waste and are profitable.” spoke with Rusudan Management Code, which entered into The WMTR program has developed Gorkhelashvili, the force in 2015, she said. The new code an association of different-sized com- communication obligates municipalities to develop plans panies involved in waste management and outreach team for municipal waste management. It also in Georgia, and is working with them to manager for the introduces fines for littering and illegal promote integrated waste management project, about how dumping. principles at central and local levels to their work will To date, the WMTR has cleared three support them in their operation, Gork- help clean up the “spontaneous” dumpsites in Adjara and helashvili noted. countryside and push four in Kakheti, the program’s focus ar- for more sustainable eas. It has also planted 380 trees at illegal Youth – Agents for Change recycling. dumpsites in the two regions. The WMTR program is also working The WMTR program has been work- closely with the youth to educate them ing closely with the Ministry of Environ- about recycling. An expensive problem ment and Georgia’s Solid Waste Man- “The program’s most important target llegal landfills in Georgia are a agement Company, she added, to create audience is youth, in terms of raising very extensive problem due to the international-standard regulations on awareness on integrated waste man- Icountry’s socio-economic condition, building, operating and closing landfills. agement—Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, Rusudan Gorkhelashvili said. Gorkhelashvili noted that the pro- Recycle—principles,” she said. “In the regions, funds allocated to gram’s objectives are based on reducing The youth outreach also includes ac- waste management are very limited. waste so there is less to go to landfills. tivities gear to engage children at school Waste management—collection, trans- and in the summer. portation, disposal or recycling, and Reduce, Reuse, Recycle “We work with school students monitoring of waste—is not a cheap Promoting recycling is an important through competitions on waste-related is- service,” she said, adding that while the part of the program. sues, seminars, open classes, workshops, situation has improved in Tbilisi, it is still “Unfortunately, there are no recy- training, as well as eco-camps, which are a problem outside the capital. cling centers in Tbilisi where people can one of our most important activities for “Illegal dumping exists because, take their recyclable waste; there are only raising awareness and education,” she when there’s no infrastructure, i.e. waste campaigns, from time to time, carried out explained. bins, and when waste is not collected, by book stores,” she said, adding that “The youth, who are agents of people have no choice other than creating CENN also has a recycling campaign, change, are the primary target of our spontaneous illegal dumpsites or burning the Green Office Campaign. project.”
6 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 7 Helena Bedwell
eorgia lacks common borders with the EU Visa EU. But the new visa-free regime Brus- Gsels plans to grant the country, together Liberalization: with the 2014 free trade agreement, could help Georgia build new bridges and bolster increasing Georgia’s Ticket trade relations. Breaking away from the Russian Market For Russian market has traditionally been the December 18 was a main focus for Georgian producers. big day for Georgia: Trade between the two countries dwindled fol- the European lowing Moscow’s 2006 trade embargo, although the Union reaffirmed Russian market has slowly opened up to Georgian its commitment to producers since 2012. Georgia and Ukraine The breakthrough in trade relations with Rus- siah as been a welcoming bolster for Georgian by confirming their trade. But it has come with fears that the Georgian intention to grant economy could once again grow dependent on citizens the right Moscow. to obtain visas for Pundits hope, however, that the new benefits short-term business, from EU’s visa-free regime and the Deep and Com- tourist or family prehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA) will trips. Bloomberg’s help Georgia build stronger trade relations outside Helena Bedwell speaks of Russia and the former Soviet Union. with producers, Roman Gotsiridze, an expert and former central banker of Georgia, believes the wider EU market economists and will give Georgia more opportunities to grow and government officials start mass production.The most important benefits about what Brussels’ of all, he noted, could be the visa-free regime’s visa-free regime power to end the illegal immigration of Georgians could mean for the abroad and kick-start affordable tourism. Georgian economy. International Marketing for Georgia’s Famous Cuisine In the first six months of the Georgia-EU trade agreement, Georgian exports of fruit juices to the EU more than tripled, according to a DCFTA fact sheet. Under the free trade agreement, Georgia has started exporting some products to the EU that it did not export to it before, such as acyclic alcohols and synthetic filament yarns. Georgia’s Ministry of Agriculture, which has a significant role as a connecting bridge to the
8 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 9 EU market, was asked whether any and imports premium-class Georgian Russia, including political risks. Also, fluctuations have been detected in trade products to France and Monaco. Cre- if we totally concentrate on Russia, we numbers. ated by the Sopromadze family, it offers won’t have enough for other markets.” “The EU market is not a virtual real- the French market of 80 million sauces, ity for us anymore; as much as 35% of juices and other 25 other types of prod- Reassuring International total trade is with the EU market right ucts that have already established a Investors now, an increase as compared to previous reputation in France. The Director of Georgia’s National years,” Levin Davitashvili, the Deputy Khatuna Sopromadze, a co-founder Investment Agency, Giorgi Pertaia, said Minister of Agriculture, said in an inter- of the company, tells me that at first EU visa liberalization will also pave view in Tbilisi in December. “Hazelnuts, it was very difficult to establish local the way for more foreign investors in contacts and build con- Georgia. Pundits hope, however, that the new sumer trust. She added He noted that it will help foreign benefits from EU’s visa-free regime that Georgian produc- businesses perceive Georgia as a stable, ers were equally hard successful, Western-oriented country. and the Deep and Comprehensive Free to deal with. In the In an interview right before the EU visa end, however, success liberalization announcement was made, Trade Agreement (DCFTA) will help came: today legendary Pertaia noted that Brussels’ decision to Georgia build stronger trade relations places like the Café de grant Georgia a visa-free regime would Paris Monaco, Hotel reassure the country’s partners that outside of Russia and the former de Paris Monaco, Salle Georgia is a reliable partner. Soviet Union. Empire, Monaco Hotel Vato Lejava, the Chancellor of the Hermitage and its Salle Free University of Tbilisi, agreed, not- spirits, wine, and mineral waters reign in Belle Epoque, Fairmont Monte Carlo, ing that by reducing travel restrictions trade at this moment.” and Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort for Georgians, Brussels has made it The authorities also predict a bright offers Georgian products. easier for entrepreneurs to make contacts future for other products, aside from the “We began by introducing Georgia and build business relations in the EU traditional frontrunners. These include and its culture to our potential customers market. juices, berries, kiwis, and newly grown so they could see just how much love “You have heard stories when for- exotic fruits, for which Georgia has per- and warmth is put toward making these eigners come to Georgia, decided to fect soil sand climate. Challenges, such products,”she said. “We have managed to stay here and begin businesses, whatever as packaging, quality control, and rules to make them love Georgian products; we that is, making wine, planting fruits or satisfy the EU market are being worked are very proud that we achieved some- vegetables or just launching a guest- on intensively along with the local farm- thing like this.” ers, Davitashvili added. Georgian tea is also In the first six months of the Georgia- Davitashvili sees more room for being exported to the growth of markets for Georgian organic EU market. EU trade agreement, Georgian exports products, like supplying kiwis to Germa- “Any market, in- of fruit juices to the EU more than ny, and blueberries grown all-naturally, cluding the Russian while he is less optimistic that he will market, is great for trad- tripled, according to a DCFTA fact see Georgia supplying such markets right ers and businesspeople sheet. away. “We don’t have any other barriers, and is interesting and but not having a critical mass of agricul- profitable,” noted Mikheil Chkuaseli, house.” Lejava said in an interview in tural production right now, everything is the CEO of Geoplan, is largest producer Tbilisi. “The same logic can apply to sold very fast.” of Georgian tea. visa liberalization. People will have great There are already success stories, “But I believe that sales should be di- opportunities to socialize with each other like the company SOPROSS AG, which versified and never be dependent on one and make business decisions. Georgia is has been based in France for two years particular market, Risks are high with part of the...Western world”
10 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 ti seme nt adver
Will Souring Russian- Turkish Relations be a Boon for Georgia? Russia announced sanctions against Turkey in November, and called on its citizens not to visit Turkish resorts after the Turkish military shot down a Russian jet. Investor. ge spoke to Georgian government officials and economists to see if the Georgian economy could benefit from the crisis.
Nino Bakradze
ore tourists, more trade, more prob- lems for the Georgian economy? MThere are a lot of questions about what increased tensions between former allies Russia and Turkey could mean for Georgia. Economists are divided over any potential positive impact for the Georgian economy, while government officials and tour operators are scrambling to attract as many Russian tour- ists as possible.
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 11 “Catching” Russian Tourists this year. Vato Lezhava, are doubtful that Russian The Georgian government should “We want to run an active market- tourists will flock to Georgia, however. work quickly and get as many advantages ing campaign in the Russian market to “The belief that we can catch Rus- from the situation as it can, according attract more tourists. We plan to orga- sian tourists who will not visit Turkey to Lasha Lanchava, a researcher at the nize press and familiarization tours for next year is exaggerated. Why would Policy Institute at the International Russian journalists and tourist agencies they not go to Greece, which has a good School of Economics at Tbilisi State in 2016, as well as make TV advertise- relationship with Russia and lower prices ments and programs about due to their financial crisis? Greece has Economists are divided over any Georgia’s tourism poten- enough resources to host this many tour- tial. We are conducting ists and we do not,” he said. potential positive impact for the Georgian negotiations with particular economy, while government officials and airline companies to start Export Opportunities? tour operators are scrambling to attract charter flights from Russia In addition to tourism, there is an ex- to Georgia,” he said. pectation that Russian-Turkish tensions as many Russian tourists as possible. Georgian tourism agen- could bolster Georgians exports. cies are also working to Lanchava noted how trout exports University (ISET). attract more Russian tourists. noticeably increased after Russian “One average Russian tourist spends Over 866,000 Russian tourists visited banned some goods from the EU. “As approximately $1,000 per tour. About 7 Georgia in 2015 -- 14% more than in we found out during our research, trout million tourists previously visited Turkey 2014, according to GNTA’s statistics. is imported into Georgia from EU coun- and Egypt each year from Russia. If we Caucasus Travel brought 400 Rus- tries, like Norway, then they repackage will catch 1 or 2 million tourists from this sian tourists to Georgia last year. The it and export to Russia. The same might amount additionally next year, it would company’s deputy director, Gvantsa will happen now, since Turkey exports be a positive shock to our economy,” Razmadze, told Investor.ge that they are fruits and vegetables to Russia,” he said. he said. gearing up to engage with the Russian “Our government should study the “We have some advantages: we are market even more intensely this year. Russian market very carefully, start geographically closer, our prices are “The Georgian tourism industry is negotiations to get some quota and then lower and the Georgian brand is well preparing to receive more tourists from attract foreign investments or support known in Russia. But the government Russia and to host them. and private sector should work quickly We are going to activate Over 866,000 Russian tourists visited now, as the Israeli government is doing. our online marketing and They have already started negotiations information campaign in Georgia in 2015, which is 14% more with Russian tourist agencies, air compa- this direction. There is a than in 2014, according to GNTA’s nies and to run an information campaign chance to plan familiariza- statistics. there.” tion tours for Russian tour The Georgian government is already agencies,” Razmadze said. working to attract as many Russian Russian tour operators also appear local farmers to produce more goods.” tourists as possible, according to the to be optimistic about Georgia as an But Lezhava warns that while some Georgian National Tourism Administra- alternative destination: the Omsk region individual business owners might benefit tion (GNTA). website reported that managers of Rus- from the Russian sanctions against Tur- GNTA told Investor.ge that it started sian tourism companies are recommend- key, in general the heightened tension negotiations with Russian tourism agen- ing consumers visit Batumi instead of in the region is bad for the Georgian cies after Russian-Turkish relations Abu-Dhabi. economy. soured. “Above all, trading requires peace,” Giorgi Chogovadze, the head of “Exaggerated” Expectations he said. GNTA, says they expect Georgia to have But some economists, like the Chan- “Nothing will be done without peace over 108,000 additional Russian tourists cellor of the Free University of Tbilisi, in our region.”
12 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 13 14 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 Winter in Georgia: Where to go with skis – or without Investor.ge has complied basic information about Georgia’s four main skiing destinations – and some great sites for day trips on the weekends if you need a break from the slopes.
Georgia’s Newest Ski Resort djara, a western Georgian prov- ince famous for its rocky Black ASea beaches and signature khachapuri, is now the country’s newest ski destination. Goderdzi offers 13 kilometers of ski runs from December through mid-April. A pass for the resort’s two gondolas are $8.30, according to the now.ge website. The website warns, however, that accommodations are scarce, so it is best to plan ahead. There is one hotel and a handful of cottages on site. Goderdzi is 100 kilometers from the Batumi airport, 242 kilometers from the Kutaisi airport and 450 kilometers from the Tbilisi airport, according to Bakuriani, Georgia the website.
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 15 A UNESCO Ski Vacation trip from the capital. Tbilisi and 190 kilometers from Kutaisi. There are two ski resorts in Georgia’s There are 57 kilometers of ski runs, mountainous region of Svaneti – Hats- a mix of blue, red and black trails. There Destinations for Non-Ski vali and Tetnuldi – both near the town are several ski lifts – one T-bar; five chair Weekends of Mestia. lifts and one gondola – and a day pass Once you have perfected your ski tan Skiing in Svaneti is a cultural ex- costs $18. and your mogul jumping, Georgia still perience, mixing new ski runs with the There are accommodations near has plenty to offer. province’s ancient stone towers and the resort, mainly small hotels, but it Rabati Fortress in Samtskhe-Javakhe- breathtaking mountain views. is strongly recommended to book in ti is a year-round destination. Located in The Hatsvali resort has six kilometers advance, especially on weekends, when the town of Akhaltsikhe, 207 kilometers of ski runs, a mix of red and blue trails. the resort is the most crowded. The resort from Tbilisi, the Rabati complex includes There are two lifts – one T-bar and one is open for skiing from mid-December the remains of a 14th century castle and chair lift, and a daily pass costs $9. Ski- to mid-April. an 18th century mosque. ing is possible from mid-December to Gudauri is 130 kilometers from The complex itself reportedly dates mid-April. Tbilisi and 310 kilometers from Kutaisi. back to the 13th century, when it was The Tetnuldi resort is scheduled to known as Lomisa Castle. It survived open with bigger and better runs this ski Georgia’s Family Ski Resort attacks by Tamerlane and the Mongols. season. The resort will reportedly have Bakuriani is a village-turned-ski From 1590 to 1829, the fortress – as six lifts and 25 kilometers of ski runs for resort from December to April. well as the rest of Akhaltsikhe and the the 2016 ski season, which runs surrounding region – was part to mid-May. of the Ottoman Empire. A daily pass is $9. Skiing in Svaneti is a cultural A museum on site reportedly Accommodations for both includes 25,000 artifacts, in- resorts can be found in nearby experience, mixing new ski cluding manuscripts and parch- Mestia, where there are some ments dating back to the 11th small hotels and guesthouses. runs with the province’s century, as well as many other It is best to book in advance. items of historical significance. Mestia is 256 kilometers ancient stone towers and Closer to Tbilisi, the ancient from the Batumi airport, 240 remains of Uplistsikhe caves kilometers from the Kutaisi breathtaking mountain views. and fortress are well worth airport, and 430 kilometers seeing. from the Tbilisi airport. Uplistsikhe, which means There are some charter flights from Its 16 kilometers of ski runs accom- “Fortress of the Lord,” played an impor- Tbilisi to the Mestia airport; please modate the full range of skiers, from tant role in Georgia’s ancient past, and check with the airport or local travel newbie to expert, although there are far the site was active as late as the Middle agencies for up-to-date information on more trails for beginners. The nearby Ages. It is thought to be the oldest urban flight dates and costs. There is also a Didveli ski resort offers some of the settlement in Georgia, and archeolo- regularly running train from Tbilisi to more challenging runs. Be forewarned, gists have found the remains of ancient Zugdidi, a town 130 kilometers from however, that the gondolas close on days temples and indications that a sun god- Mestia. Private marshrutka mini-buses with high winds. dess was worshipped there. and taxis are available from Zugdidi to A daily pass costs $12 for the resort’s Artifacts dating back to the late Mestia, depending on the weather and T-bars, lift chairs and gondola. Bronze Age have also been found on road conditions. Bakuriani is famous in Georgia for its the site, according to the ancient-orgins. non-ski activities: there is a large park for net website. Weekend Ski Destination children, horseback riding, sledding and Uplistsikhe is located about 15 ki- Gudauri ski resort, just 130 kilome- snowmobiles. lometers east of the city of Gori and 80 ters from Tbilisi, is a popular weekend The resort is 220 kilometers from kilometers from Tbilisi.
16 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016
Georgia Developing New Incentives to Attract Foreign Film Companies
18 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 A new component, Shoot in Georgia, is being added to the government’s Produce in Georgia program this year. The Economy Ministry is betting on financial and technical assistance to bring more film shoots to Georgia. Investor.ge spoke with Deputy Economy Minister KetevanBochorishvili about the program.
Georgia’s Soviet architecture served as a backdrop for the 2015 thriller Partisan, starring Vincent Cassel
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 19 The idea to make Georgia a magnet for international film producers is not entirely new. Foreign film directors have been exploring Georgia as an inexpensive but attractive location. The country’s low-level of bureaucracy, diverse environment and climate – as well as its rich culture – have also added to its appeal.
Annette Bening producers, according to the program’s ister added. Maia Edilashvili webpage. More foreign Movies with The Ministry of Economy and the Georgian Settings he Ministry of Economy’s pro- Embassy of the U.S. in Georgia jointly The idea to make Georgia a magnet gram focuses on film producers hosted Mary Ann Hughes, Vice President for international film producers is not Tin France, Germany, India and at the Walt Disney Company, and Joe entirely new. Foreign film directors have the U.S., according to Deputy Economy Chianese, Executive Vice President of been exploring Georgia as an inexpen- Minister Ketevan Bochorishvili. Entertainment Partners (EP), in Georgia sive but attractive location. The country’s Bochorishvili is part of a team that is in September. low level of bureaucracy, diverse envi- actively reaching out to producers. While in Georgia, Hughes and Chi- ronment and climate – as well as its rich “Throughout the first half of 2016, we anese advised the Ministry on develop- culture – have also added to its appeal. will meet foreign producers and attempt ing legislation and incentives to help Russian-American filmmaker and to interest them through road shows and the movie industry – and, in turn, the video artist Julia Loktev was charmed presentations. Our expectation is that in Georgian economy. by Georgia’s “very unique-looking” the second half of 2016 we will have at The Georgian government and the landscapes, making them almost a main least three foreign movies produced in U.S.Embassy are now working to follow character in her 2011 movie, “The Lone- Georgia,” Bochorishvili told Investor.ge up on their visit by bringing Disney and liest Planet.” BidzinaGujabidze, along in an e-mailed interview. other American film production compa- with Mexican actor Gael Garcia Bernal The program, part of the Ministry’s nies back to Georgia. and Israeli-American actress Hani Fun- Enterprise Georgia initiative, which also Bochorishvili said that Hughes and tenberg, star in the film. A story of an involves the Ministry of Culture and the Chianese “expressed interest to cooper- engaged couple’s camping expedition in Georgian National Film Center, includes ate and to support the Shoot in Georgia the Caucasus Mountains was described a package of financial and tax initiatives initiative. Following their advice, we by Interview magazineas a film “largely for production companies that opt for have started to prepare a look book, silent, but loaded with nuance.”Interview Georgia. bringing together all key Georgian loca- also described the film’s Georgian land- tions.” scapes as “overwhelmingly beautiful.” Twenty-Percent Cash Rebate “We are in a process to draft our Loktev was quoted as saying: “I was The plan offers a cash rebate system action plan and will announce specific very picky about the kind of landscape that returns 20% of production costs to news as we move on,” the deputy min- that the film would have, because the
20 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 landscape is almost like music in the film. one of the film’s locations. ishvili said. The Indian productions have It sets, completely, the mood of the film. Another Bollywood romance, “Ishqe- brought images of Dartlo in Tusheti, I didn’t want something that was rocky, darriyaan,” was shot entirely in Georgia the Vardzia cave complex in Samtskhe- that was arid. I also didn’t want trees. and features Kvareli Lake, Alazani Javakheti, the streets of Tbilisi, Rustavi These mountains are huge and green Valley and Tbilisi streets– includingthe and Borjomi–as well as national folk and open; they just seemed so right for former Parliament building, the Bridge songs and dancing –to Indian audiences. the story.” of Peace and Hero’s Square. According Currently, Georgia’s movie industry Michel Hazanavicius was charmed to a Rustavi 2 TV report, 40 percent of brings in 3,000,000 lari(approximately by Georgia’s Soviet-era apartment the film’s $400,000 was spent in Georgia. $1.25 million) in revenues yearly and blocks, which were the backdrop for his the goal is to double this amount, Bo- 2014 film “The Search,” starring Annette Exporting Georgia chorishvili said. Bening as a French-born, Chechnya- Over the last three years, Indian- “The availability of local resources, based NGO worker. filmmakers have made three movies both human and technical, has to be The country’s Soviet architecture in Georgia, two music videos and five taken into account. Now, with existing also attracted Australian-born direc- advertising videos, spending 7,000,000 resources, we can work on a maximum of tor Ariel Kleiman for his 2015 thriller lari ($2.93 million) and employing over that the demand is rising, we will support “Partisan,” which starred Vincent Cassel. 800 people, Bochorishvili said. the industry and increase ourcapacity,” “The arrival of international movie she told Investor.ge. Enter Bollywood companies helps create jobs for locals, “Also, we would welcome projects India’s immense movie industry improves their qualifications, promotes mentioning in their plots that Georgia has also eyed Georgian landscapes. In the country’s image and pushes those is the filming venue. In this case, we 2011, Chakri Toleti directed “Billa II,” fields ahead, which is important for will provide additional incentives,” she an Indian thriller, and chose Georgia as creating a high quality film,” Bochor- added. advertisement A New Central Building The Future: Park for Tbilisi An Overview Of Major New
The plan chosen by the Tbilisi Mayor’s Office to redevelop the Projects Planned In Tbilisi area destroyed by the 2015 flood envisions a 20,000 square meter The Tbilisi horizon is constantly changing, and with more major projects underway – from the Georgian educational center, a sports complex, Co-Investment Fund’s Panorama and Axis Towers a park, bike paths and pedestrian developments to the Tbilisi City project and the plans parkways. for a new park and recreational area on the site of The education center will include the 2015 flood – the skyline of Georgia’s capital could a library and conference halls, look quite a bit different in a few years. Investor.ge and “green bridges” will connect spoke with developers and specialists about their plans Mziuri Park with the territory that is and the demand for Tbilisi real estate. currently the zoo, according to the winning proposal. Lika Jorjoliani The Georgian Co-Investment Fund The zoo will be moved to the is also working on a major project on Tbilisi Sea suburbs, and the space it orty-one story skyscrapers and the other side of Tbilisi, the $500 mil- currently occupies will be included multi-million dollar develop- lion Panorama Tbilisi project. This in the park. Fments. It is hard to miss the development, which has inspired pro- The proposal also includes plans building boom in Tbilisi – or the new tests, includes four hotels in Tbilisi’s to limit traffic on the highway that trend for developers to focus on large, historic Sololaki and Freedom Square runs through the gorge to public multi-functional projects rather than neighborhoods. There are also plans for transportation. apartment blocks. New apartment and a massive parking garage and the the Mikheil Baliashvili, the office complexes are going up in nearly project’s developer reportedly intends director of Architectural Bureau, every district of the capital, and even to plant 30,000 new trees, according to the company behind the winning more are rumored to be starting in the Georgian Journal. proposal, said the final concept will suburbs. be submitted to mayor’s office in €130 million Green Valley February, and City Hall will hold a Georgia’s Twin Towers City tender for engineering details after “According to the Georgian Co- The UAE-based Green Valley Inter- that. Investment Fund website, once they are national Real Estate Group is reportedly Chairman of the Architects’ completed in 2017, the double, 147-me- planning to invest $136 million in an Union David Abuladze supported ter, 41-story skyscrapers planned for 88,000 square meter development in the idea of restricting traffic on the Vake will be the highest buildings in Tbilisi, according to Arabianbusiness. highway. “This is a good initiation! Tbilisi. com. At the first stage the main highway An $83 million project, the Axis The company did not respond to will serve as a parkway for city and Towers will include a five-star hotel requests from Investor.ge for comment. private transport, and in the final operated by the high-class French in- A Green Valley press release, however, variant only public electric transport, ternational brand Pullman in the glass noted that the development will include which will serve the people using tower, as well as an A-class business 10 buildings made up of 510 units – stu- the recreational zone, will utilize it,” center. The stone town will house 15,000 dios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom he said. square meters of apartments, according apartments – and a private district with to the website. luxury villas.
22 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 New Projects in Saburtalo, the Right Bank The dip in sales in 2015 was due to the Georgian lari’s Business Group Valencia, together with ARCHI Group, is fluctuating value compared to the dollar, the report said. developing “Tbilisi City,” an approximately 200,000-square- meter project in Saburtalo. There are also plans for the construc- Driven by Demand tion of a four-story commercial center, with an entrance directly Demand for apartments is still high, however, according from the metro station. to the director of the property company Erdo Group, Guram The center will be constructed at the intersection of Pekin Palavandishvili. and Saburtalo streets, according to the current plan, noted Busi- “Today, many people desire to buy new flats to replace their ness Group Valencia’s Zurab Agladze. old accommodations,” he said. The $100 million project is still in the early stages of devel- Business Group Valencia’s Agladze added that there is a opment, however: an environmental impact study is still being real lack of facilities for large-scale international events and prepared, and talks are underway with residents who would be forums. “I would like to note that, in fact, problems occurred affected by the new complex. in the process of holding the “Silk Road” forum in Tbilisi… it The Azerbaijani AS Group Investment started construction was difficult to place all the guests, since there were not enough of the Dirsi complex in 2012. The $150 million investment is accommodations,” he said. already built, according to the head of marketing and sales, “That means that we need buildings for large-scale forums Keti Adeishvili. and seven-star hotels for high-class guests and “A” class of- “Our company is an innovator in complex construction,” fices,” he explained. she said. “It is very difficult to determine the economic and political advertisement factors that are sensitive for the real estate market in advance. … We implemented preliminary investments equal to $150 mil- lion in the development of the [Dirsi complex’s] infrastructure. Within two years we completed construction and started active sales,” she explained.
366 Projects There were 366 residential developments underway in Tbilisi in the first quarter of 2015, according to a 2015 Colliers report on Tbilisi’s residential real estate market. Large-scale developers, Colliers reported, made up 17 percent of the projects under development. While overall sales were down in the first quarter of 2015 compared to the same period last year, demand was strong for small apartments in general and luxury apartments in Vake, the report noted. “The vast majority of demand distribution occurred in the Saburtalo District, with 25% of the total transactions. The largest share of transactions are small-sized apartments (<50 sqm). This trend is more significant in suburban parts of the city, such as Chughureti, Gldani, Nadzaladevi and Samgori, where small apartments (up to 70 sqm) represent almost 50% of the transactions,” the report noted. “The Vake district is an exception, with large apartments (150-250 sqm) comprising the largest percentage of total district transactions, followed then by the Krtsanisi and Mtatsminda districts.”
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 23 A question of independence income taxes, revenue taxes, property eorgia is racing to produce taxes, they are employing people and Georgia’s more energy to match the coun- they are producing a Georgian product, Gtry’s growing demand. While which is electricity, which can be ex- most attention has been on negotiations ported and this will improve the trade Hydro with Gazprom to purchase more natural deficit. So in terms of economy, they are gas, the government is equally focused absolutely vital for us,” he said. on producing more electricity, according “But they have another feature, which to Deputy Energy Minister Ilia Eloshvili. is energy security. This is the major con- Boom The government’s new energy de- cern for the government. velopment plan, passed by parliament The people underestimate the trend last year, envisions a country where of dependence on electricity…people Over the past three enough electricity is produced to satisfy are underestimating the negative affect years, the Georgian the growing demand. Georgians current of dependence on neighboring countries, government has consume just 2,000 kilowatt hours per and it doesn’t matter which country.” But Georgia has a natural solution: attracted investors capita, a fraction of the consumption in developed countries. hydro power. Energy analysts at Galt for four major But Eloshvili noted that number is and Taggart Research say the country has hydro power plants increasing by an average of five percent “vast” potential, with just 20-25 percent and scores of small every year; he estimates the deficit could currently being utilized. “According to and medium ones. grow to as high as 1.5 or 2 billion kilo- our estimates, 4,000 to 4,500 megawatts Investor.ge spoke watt hours in a few years if the country of installed capacity is economically with Deputy Energy does not increase its own production feasible and can be added to the grid,” Minister Ilia Eloshvili, capacity. the research house told Investor.ge in an investors and sector “The development of the hydro email interview. power plants has two major goals for us, Eloshvili said the government plan analysts about what one is economical because … in terms includes creating around 500-600 mega- is pushing the boom. of economic value, they are bringing in watts of thermal power (one megawatt
24 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 25 hour equals 1000 kilowatt hours), 300- 400 megawatts of wind power and 3,400 megawatts of hydro power over the next several years. They are already moving toward those goals: over the past three years, thermal power plants with a capacity to produce 230 megawatts - and 150 mega- watt capacity in hydro power plants have been built. “That is a $500 million invest- ment in our economy,” Eloshvili said. There are also scores of other projects either under study or under construction, he added. There are four major hydro power plants planned, with the combined ca- pacity to produce 1500 megawatts of Eloshvili said there have been major and allow memorandums to be signed electricity: Nenskra, a 800 megawatt changes to the rules and regulations for with a minimum of interference from hydro plant, is under construction. The hydro investment, including a change the ministry. construction of the Khudoni, Oni and in how the government treats the guar- Eloshvili also noted that a system Namakhvani projects is estimated to start antees investors have to pay before the for Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) within the next 12 months, Eloshvili said. project starts. The new system requires has been created, so developers know There are also many smaller projects, fewer guarantees from investors up front, in advance how much the government already built, under construction or in the and offers them a more forgiving set of will pay for the energy produced in peak final stages of the pre-feasibility study. deadlines - as well as a “buffer” before months - and the government knows how starting to seize the guarantees over much energy is available to them. New rules, new process delayed deliverables. This system, the deputy minister said, The government credits new, stream- In addition, the new rules offer more gives small and medium hydro power lined requirements for the uptick in hydro benefits for developers who propose plant developers the security to be able projects. completely new sites for hydro plants, to plan their investment, and sell power to Turkey in the off season. Galt and Taggart analysts agree that, on the regulation side, there are “few if any barriers, as regulation is liberal and focused on attracting investment.”
Encouraging competition But some investors argue that more needs to be done to ensure the market is competitive and liberal. Schulze Global Investments Man- aging Director in Georgia, Mikheil Nibladze, told Investor.ge that investors need a better, more open market for sell- ing electricity to Turkey during the sum- mer months, when Georgia has enough electricity but the demand is at its peak
26 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 for Turkey. obstacles in transmission and distribu- for competition, he said, noting that will He noted that while the new transmis- tion, through an exchange,” Nibladze make the sector self-regulating and more sion line to Turkey offers hydro plant said. attractive for investors. owners access to the market, “the line Radislav Dudolenski echoed his The energy ministry’s Eloshvili is currently underutilized because there concerns. Dudolenski has been involved noted that the reforms have liberalized is not enough electricity production in in the Georgian energy market since the Georgian market, and made it more Georgia and Turkey has its constraint set 2006, when he worked for Energy-Pro competitive. in terms of limiting the ability to take the in Georgia. Now he is developing small He noted that if an investor is not electricity from the Georgian border in hydro power plants with his own com- interested in access to the transmission particular months during summer.” pany, Hydrolea. line or a PPA, they can build a plant and While praising the reforms the gov- “The rules should be competitive,” start selling energy without even inform- ernment has made on lowering guaran- he said. “The less administration, the ing the ministry. tees, Nibladze stressed that “more con- less regulation and the more [open the] “If those developers will do the crete efforts need to be made, especially market is – that will definitely make me research, look into our rules, they will in terms of the open market and trade feel more comfortable. Of course there understand they already are number one. with Turkey.” are economic cycles, prices go up, prices There are absolutely no restrictions,” he “By this I mean creating a harmo- go down…but that is just business.” said. “How can we be afraid of competi- nized market-mechanism for selling Hydro power plant owners need a tion when we ourselves introduced the electricity openly to any buyer, without more liberal market, where there is room competition?”
advertisement The Keepers of the Dream: Abastumani’s Dedicated Astronomers
The oldest astronomical observatory in the South Caucasus is hidden on the top of a mountain above the spa city of Abastumani. The observatory’s glorious historic tradition has been kept alive thanks to the engagement and enthusiasm of the old guard of scientists.
28 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 Tatjana Montik
bastumani’s fame for astronomy goes back to the times of the Russian Empire. The brother Aof the last Tsar, Great Duke Georgi, suffered from tuberculosis and frequently traveled to Abastumani for treatment. In the early 20th century, Georgi’s astrono- mer, Sergey Glazenap, discovered that the climate in Abastumani–with its still and clear air –was particularly favorable for astronomical observations. The Russian Revolution interrupted the Tsar’s plans to build an observatory there, however, and the first Georgian observatory was not built until 1932. In addi- tion to the observatory, perched above Abastumani on Kanobili Mountain, an entire village was built for the scientists working there.
An Isolated Village Designed for Research Astronomy professor Giorgi Javakhishvili, a former observatory director, spent 27 years living permanently in this science village, known as “the Mountain.” He says the observatory’s remote location made it ideal for research: “Especially in winter, you see hardly any people, and you go to work, come back, and you can be only on your own. All you can do is think about your work, only about the most serious and important things.” I travel to Abastumani in the company of an engi- neer, Alexander Avsajanishvili, who used to work at the observatory in the 1980s. Avsajanishvili worked on a team studying the middle layers of our atmosphere. “We were performing amazing work that was real science! My boss, who was also my friend, Yuri Matysh- vili, was a very educated man. He challenged us with a lot of interesting tasks,” he says. “We studied the layers of the atmosphere between 40 and 120 km, which are too high for airplanes and too low for satellites. And we came across exciting discoveries.” Unfortunately, much of the team’s work remained unfinished due to the collapse of the Soviet Union, Avsajanishvili tells me.
From Fairytale to Hardship We arrive at nighttime during a full moon, and the village makes a fairytale impression. The freshly reno- vated domes of the Stalinist observatory towers glow magically in the moonlight. One of the scientists, Givi
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 29 Kimeridze, lets us look at the surface But despite the many difficulties, a crater on the Moon, first observed the of the Moon with a telescope with the their scientific research continued, he polarization of the Crab nebula from this power to magnify 250 times. The craters says. “As the science of astronomy de- observatory. and the mountains of the Moon seem to velops very quickly, you need to make Nowadays, says Janiashvili, astron- lie on our palm. your observations every day,” he ex- omy has become a science of privileged Avsajanishvili and his wife, also an plains. “We kept working, hoping for the rich people. Many of his colleagues, astronomer, still have an apartment in better times to come. Now our hopes are especially those specialized in astrophys- the science village. However, today it tied to our students; many of them could ics, received lucrative offers from foreign is not easy to live on the premises. At become great scholars, but we all need science centers and left the country. Avsajanishvili’s apartment, located in an better financing and new equipment.” Enthusiasts like Janiashvili and impressive Stalinist building, we must Kimeridze, as well as some of their col- first collect firewood so we can heat a Georgia’s Space Ambitions leagues, are still dedicating their lives to small stove. At the observatory museum, Ja- this observatory, however. “In Soviet times, our living condi- niashvili explains the glorious history of For them, working in astronomy now tions were more comfortable than in this science village, showing me many means not only observing the night sky the surrounding villages. But the Soviet historic pictures and old telescopes, and but also repairing their telescopes and Union collapsed, and together with it, telling stories about the major discover- machines themselves, and even buying the central heating and the warm water ies of his colleagues. new computers with their own money supply broke down,” he recalls. It was the academic Ilia Kiladze who in order to keep up with technological The years following the fall of the first measured the thickness of the rings progress. Soviet Union were difficult for most around Saturn. It was also Kiladze who The Abastumani astronomers still Georgians. predicted the existence of Pluto’s moon dream, however, that Georgia can be- Many struggled just to survive – in- Charon. come a “space power” in the Caucasus. cluding Abastumani’s scientists. Many of the discoveries were made “There are several small space powers in Eduard Janiashvili, an astronomer at with the aid of the so-called 40cm refrac- the world,” notes Javakhishvili. the observatory, recalls they had to sup- tor. One of the big publishing successes “In order to become a space power, ply themselves with firewood to replace was the “Polymetric Atlas of the Moon.” you don’t necessarily need to release the central heating, carrying it on their With this atlas one can easily study the your own rockets; you only need to have backs due to the lack of gasoline. They geological structure of the Moon. an access to the rockets in order to launch even exchanged their clothes for food in Another great scientist, Mikheil your own satellites to optimize your the nearby villages. Vashakidze, whose name was given to scientific observations,” he explained.
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30 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 Comfort Food: An Introduction
Amy Binder, co-owner Amy Binder of Ronny’s Pizza, lays rief can take care of itself, but to get the full value out a new kind of of a joy you must have somebody to divide it with.” dinner party to enjoy “GSo said Mark Twain. Although I take issue with the in 2016. independence of grief, I wholeheartedly agree that joy (and love! and life!) increase exponentially when shared with others. Now, as the new year in Tbilisi really gets rolling, it’s time to consider resolutions for health and happiness. Living and work- ing internationally has great advantages and joys, but also stresses and frustrations that can affect our well-being. We need to feed ourselves, with good food and good friendships. These two things play an important role, a necessary role, in providing sustenance and comfort. We’ve recovered from the indulgences of the holidays. We’ve settled back into work routines. We’ve come to terms with the cold, damp and dreary days that are winter. But lest we despair, another holiday comes onto the horizon – Valentine’s Day. Granted, this one can be a double-edged sword, but this year we will face it differently. Think of rose gardens. Think of the magic that trans- forms cocoa beans into chocolates. Think of new ways to love the people you love. This year I propose a new kind of dinner party. A dinner party
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 31 We need to feed ourselves, with good food and good friendships. These two things play an important role, a necessary role, in providing sustenance and comfort.
that isn’t just for holidays. A dinner party whites. it American, or save that debate for after that can happen at the drop of the hat.A Cooking and eating familiar comfort a glass of wine. Cooking dinner will dinner party that is more dinner, less food with family or friends is a way to take about an hour and fifteen minutes party, and immensely satisfying. Invite stay a part of your “home” culture. Cook- from start to table, and half the fun is friends into your kitchen. Cook dinner ing and eating new foods is a way to the discoveries you make along the way, together. Eat dinner together. Simple. explore other cultures and culinary tradi- discoveries about yourself, your friends, It does not require gourmet ingredients, tions. No matter what you create in your your food. So put on Pavarotti or Paolo extensive cooking experience or chef’s kitchen, it is a great place to connect with Conte or sing a few rounds of “On Top other people. It’s un- of Spaghetti.” Together find that joie pretentious. It’s hon- de vivre (“love of life” to an American, We’ve recovered from the indulgences est. It’s a perfect time or “gioia di vivere” to an Italian) that of the holidays. We’ve settled back into to celebrate the good makes food more than food, that makes things and the simple food an expression of love and a kind of work routines. We’ve come to terms things of life, like, for edible joy! with the cold, damp and dreary days example, spaghetti Amy Binder is one of the founders and meatballs... and and owners of Ronny’s. She makes that are winter. But lest we despair, chocolate. management decisions, financial deci- another holiday comes onto the horizon Here are recipes sions, and dinner at 7 for her husband and a plan for four. and teenage sons. Sometimes she still – Valentine’s Day. Call it Italian, or call makes pizza.
32 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 Menu and Cooking Notes
Meatballs (Cook #1) Step 2. Simmer for 45 minutes. (While you are waiting, with Butter Tomato Sauce served on top of Spaghetti put a big pot of water on the stove for the spaghetti (Cook #2) and grate some Parmesan cheese.) Leafy, Herby Green Salad and Garlic Toast (Cook #3) Step 3. Remove the onions and add the meatballs. followed by Chocolate Truffles (Cook #4) Simmer 15 minutes. Since these recipes will feed 8, feel free to enlist Leafy, Herby Green Salad and Garlic Toast more helping hands. You are pretty much on your own here. For the salad just buy the best looking greens avail- Meatballs able. Wash and toss. Serve with olive oil and a good Step 1. Mix together in a large bowl: quality balsamic vinegar. 2 lbs or 1 kilo ground beef or mixed beef & pork For the garlic toast, spread bread of your choice with 2 eggs a mixture of butter and freshly minced/pressed garlic. a spoon or two of chopped parsley Toast on the top rack of the oven for about 15 minutes. 1 clove garlic, minced or pressed through a garlic press Chocolate Truffles 1 to 2 cups bread crumbs (more crumbs make a Step 1. Place a sheet of parchment paper on a softer meatball) baking sheet. Then put the following in a microwave 1 to 2 cups water (the same volume as the crumbs proof bowl: you add) 300 grams dark chocolate, chopped salt and pepper ½ cup or 120 ml heavy cream If you use 2 cups of bread crumbs and water the 1 small spoon orange zest (You can omit this, or mixture will be quite moist. Don’t worry. It will hold to- be creative and add other things like cinnamon gether. Shape into 2 or 3 inch balls. (Hint: The larger the powder or coconut.) meatballs, the fewer you have to make.) a pinch of salt
Step 2. Heat some olive oil in a large pan and fry the Step 2. Heat in a microwave in 20 second incre- meatballs until crisp on the bottom. Turn and cook at ments, stirring frequently, until the chocolate mixture is least one other side. If they aren’t cooked all the way melted and smooth. through at this stage, that’s ok. Step 3. Pour onto the parchment paper and place Step 3. Add the meatballs to the simmering tomato in the refrigerator to cool until after dinner. (Now you sauce. can help set the table for dinner and pour everyone another drink.) Butter Tomato Sauce Step 1. Combine in a large saucepan: Step 4. Cut the cooled chocolate into squares or roll 2 - 850 ml cans of tomatoes with their juice (chop into balls and toss them in a bowl with cocoa powder or mash up the tomatoes if they are whole) or finely chopped nuts to coat them. 10 Tablespoons or 140 grams of butter 2 onions, peeled and cut in half salt Recipes inspired by and adapted from Food52.com.
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 33 BP Georgia’s Paralympic Champions
34 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 2016 will mark 20 years of BP’s successful partnership with Georgia. Together, BP has a lot to celebrate, including safe and reliable operations of the major energy projects BTC, SCP and WREP, operated by BP in Georgia on behalf of its oil and gas partners; SCP expansion activities reaching their peak; and successful social investment projects, all contributing to Georgia’s economic and social development.
We are proud that today we are the lead investor and a long-term partner working closely with the Georgian government and the society at large.
The Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro will be among the outstanding endeavours of 2016 and BP is proud to be an international partner of the International Paralympic Committee and its vision to enable para-athletes to achieve sporting excellence and inspire and excite the world at the Rio 2016 Paralypmic games.
Swimmer Nika Tvauri
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 35 BP in Georgia has been an Official Partner of the World-Class athletes Georgian National Paralympic Committee since BP in Georgia is sponsoring three 2012, including during the London Paralympic Paralympic athletes – BP’s athlete am- Games and through 2016 for the Paralympic bassadors –blind judo champion Zviad games in Rio. Gogochuri; swimmer NikaTvauri; and wheelchair fencer Irma Khetsuriani. “We are inspired by the achievements of our “I have realistic chances to win the Paralympic athlete ambassadors and sharing gold medal [in Rio] for my homeland and it with our partners in the Georgian National go down in history as the first Georgian Paralympic Committee and Georgian people. We Paralympic champion. I will not spare continue supporting athletes’ development on myself to make this a reality, and I hope their way to Rio 2016, setting them well for high there will be no bumps in my road toward performance in the world arena. this goal,” Georgian Judoka ZviadGogo- churi said. Anticipation is building with the games now Nika Tvauri’s bronze medal in the just months away, and we look forward to 50m at the 2011 IBSA World Champion- following the pursuit of each remarkable athlete ship and Games in Antalya, Turkey was on the way to the medals stand,” said Chris the first international swimming medal Schlueter, BP’s Country General Manager. won by any Georgian para-athlete since the country achieved independence in 1991. Last year, Tvauri brought home another bronze medal for Georgia from IBSA World Championship and Games in Seoul. Irma Khetsuriani is Georgia’s first female wheelchair fencer. In this sport, where most competitors specialize in one of the three types of fencing weap- ons – sabre, foil and épée – Khetsuriani
Irma Khetsuriani 36 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 Zviad Gogochuri competes in all three categories. the Georgian Paralympic Committee go overall goal of the Paralympic movement Khetsuriani’s athletic career includes to great lengths to enable me to focus – achieving top results in sports. Of the a fifth place in the senior women’s sabre solely on judo and my future success,” three athlete ambassadors, Zviad has category at the 2014 Wheelchair Fenc- Gogochuri said. already secured his qualification, while ing World Cup in Germany and a bronze “In addition, I would like to take this Nika and Irma are realistic candidates medal in the 2014 Montreal Grand Prix opportunity to extend great thanks to BP for participation in the Games in Rio,” in the women’s foil classification. for all the attention I get at every training said Giorgi Chakvetadze, President In September 2015, Irma won silver and competition, for their assistance in of the Georgian National Paralympic at the Wheelchair Fencing World Cham- attending training camps and for their all- Committee. pionships in Eger, Hungary. around support. Together with two other In partnership with the National “At first I was surprised, even Georgian para-athletes, I am under BP’s Paralympic Committee and athlete am- shocked, by the suggestion I could do direct patronage and the three of us will bassadors, BP is supporting a campaign wheelchair fencing. But then I realized all act as BP’s athlete ambassadors at the aimed at raising Paralympic awareness how exciting that was,” Khetsuriani said. Paralympic Games in Rio.” and inspiring local communities.This “The history of partnership between is part of BP’s extended support for the A Focus on Development BP and the National Paralympic Com- Paralympic Movement by becoming an Through this partnership, BP has put mittee counts several years. Strong official partner of the Agitos Founda- a special focus on supporting Paralym- relationships between our organizations tion’s Grant Support Programme (GSP), pic athlete development. BP provides are extremely important for the Commit- which provides financial support to IPC resources to support athletes during tee and for me personally. A number of members to develop para-sports around training and competition, ensuring they competitions have been funded through the world. By becoming the IPC’s first have the necessary coaching, equipment the partnership with BP, which have international partner to support its devel- and travel capabilities. highly contributed toward the develop- opment arm, BP has funded its para-sport “The Judo National Federation and ment of parasports and have served the project in Georgia.
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 37 NEWS
content
American Friends of 54 Georgia Annual Gala
40 AMCHAM MEMBERS DISCUSS 44 Member Profile: The Crowne POLITICS, REGIONAL EVENTS Plaza Borjomi Hotel WITH US, UK AMBASSADORS 45 Member Profile: River Side 41 US EMBASSY DEPUTY, AMCHAM Tbilisi Hotel MEMBERS DISCUSS EU VISA LIBERALIZATION 46 New Members
42 AMCHAM CLT COMMITTEE ACTIVE 48 Member Directory IN GOVERNMENT INVESTOR COUNCIL 52 Social: Members Appreciation Party 42 CSR COMMITTEE HOSTS SCHOLARSHIP FUND 54 Social: American Friends of Georgia Annual Gala 42 AMCHAM AGRIBUSINESS COMMITTEE DISCUSSES PROMOTING PRODUCTS ABROAD
38 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 NEWS
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 39 NEWS
AmCham Members Discuss Politics, Regional Events with US, UK Ambassadors
Ian C. Kelly, Ambassador of the United States of America, opened the January 20 AmCham roundtable meet- ing at Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel with a political and economic review. This included a discussion of recent changes in Georgia’s political environment and what they might mean for political and economic reform, as well as issues relat- ing the region, including developments in Iran, Turkey and Russia. Ambassador Kelly was followed by Alexandra Hall Hall, Ambassador of Governance Fund, which is being used to Both presentations were followed the United Kingdom to Georgia. The support a range of public policy reform by a dynamic Q&A between AmCham ambassador introduced the UK’s Good projects, including the Investor Council. members and the ambassadors.
40 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 NEWS
US Embassy Deputy, AmCham Members Discuss EU Visa Liberalization
Nicholas Berliner, Deputy Chief of Mission from Embassy of the United States in Georgia, opened the Decem- ber 16 AmCham monthly roundtable meeting at Marriott Tbilisi Hotel with a political and economic environment review. He outlined important issues concerning Georgia’s approximation to European institutions and its visa liber- alization process. The Deputy Chief of Mission also spoke about importance an exceptional year and welcomed newly bers for the purpose of gathering sugges- of parliamentary elections of 2016, de- joined members. tions from company representatives on velopments in the sectors of trade and Mr. Berliner was followed by George future AmCham activities. transportation, and the new Silk Road. Welton and an anonymous survey that The meeting was followed by an Mr. Berliner congratulated AmCham on was distributed among AmCham mem- engaging Q&A session.
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 41 NEWS
AmCham CLT Committee Active in Government Investor Council
On December 15th, AmCham CLT Committee members discussed Am- Cham’s contribution to the recently established Investor Council. The Cham- ber is working on several projects with the Investor Council, including draft- ing AmCham’s position on necessary reforms of the tax audit system in the Revenue Service, and negotiating with the government on uploading the drafts of business-related legislation online sev- eral weeks before they go to Parliament. Preliminary injunctions, land registration for foreigners, and competition law were also discussed at the CLT Committee meeting. CSR Committee Hosts Scholarship Fund AmCham Agribusiness Committee Discusses Promoting Products Abroad AmCham Agribusiness Committee members discussed local sourcing of agricultural products, government pro- grams for supporting farmers, HACCP standards, Georgian wine promotion strategy in foreign markets and other issues at its December 3 meeting. Members also proposed issues that The AmCham CSR Committee discussed its action plan and created working the Committee should focus on in 2016, groups at its November 20 meeting. Committee members hosted a guest speaker including legislative issues for trade from the Regional Development Society Scholarship Fund, Natia Bukia. The goal promotion and effective coordination of of the fund is to create a private scholarship that will aim to finance the education of large agribusiness producers, consumers students in Georgia. and markets.
42 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 NEWS
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 43 NEWS
Hotel Crowne Plaza Borjomi opened its doors on December 23 2015
The hotel is situated in the heart having unique layouts and different size, Crowne Plaza Borjomi Hotel of Borjomi on Baratashvili Street near terrace café, two restaurants, a bar and as Part of IHG Family offers Borjomi Historical Park and its hotel is Wine bar, Club Lounge and the gym IHG Business Rewards Club: perfectly positioned to welcome both are nicely combined with the exclusive leisure and corporate travellers. Wellness & Spa Centre (2.400 m2) of- Fast-track Membership Status Part of the IHG global portfolio, the fering leisure facilities like: swimming Reach IHG® Rewards Club Gold Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts brand is pool, steam rooms, saunas and differ- Elite with only 10,000 points a dynamic upscale hotel brand located in ent relaxing areas as well as an array Reach Platinum Elite with only nearly 65 countries around the world in of health treatments to satisfy the most 40,000 points major urban centres, gateway cities and discerning tastes and tailored to suit Earn 3 Points per $1USD for every resort destinations. As the fourth largest individual needs. Group/Event booked upscale full-service hotel brand in the For the youngest guests, hotel has Earn rewards by booking travel for world and one of the fastest growing, two floor playroom and dedicated kids’ yourself and on behalf of others the Crowne Plaza brand has a solid menu. Redeem Points for Rewards foundation for future growth. Its port- Crowne Plaza Borjomi offers 500 Redeem rewards through the global folio has doubled since 2003 to nearly m2 meeting space with the flexibility IHG® Rewards Club redemption 400 hotels, and the global pipeline has of choosing from 4 rooms, two of them catalogue increased fourfold to almost 100 hotels. dividable, the facilities can accommodate Access to IHG® Participating At Crowne Plaza Hotels, we help guests up to 500 guests. It is an ideal place with Hotels Worldwide feel energized and productive, and our facilities unique to Borjomi for confer- Gain access to over 4,700 hotels Sleep Advantage program ensures guests ences, corporate gatherings, social and in almost 100 countries around the get a great night’s sleep to power through private events. world* their day. The team of experts with its round the Manage Just One Account The hotel features 101 well-appoint- clock personalized services will meet and One membership number for all of ed guest rooms and suites with an exten- exceed expectations of the customer and your rewards programs sive city or greenery view. Complimen- make each occasion a memorable one. Online access to all upcoming tary Wi-Fi and a collection of specialty Crowne Plaza Meeting Promise: events and reservations that you pillows are on offer. 16 Club rooms and Crowne Meeting Director book Suites offer personalized service and ad- Two Hour Response Guarantee ditional privacy for the needs of today’s Daily Meeting Debrief For more information visit http:// busy executives. With Crowne Plaza Meetings, Your www.ihg.com/hotels/us/en/business- Modern guest rooms, with many Success Matters… rewards/home
44 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 NEWS Introducing: A Renovated River Side Tbilisi Hotel
The renovation process has been con- ducted according to River Side’s internal policy and international standards. From now on, River Side meets the four EU standards including applicable safety and security regulations. Moreover, we have successfully implemented HACCP standards for food safety control. From now on guests can stay at fully refreshed classic rooms and suites with premium handcrafted wood furniture and rich textiles, or try our beautiful Tiffany rooms for unforgettable moments! Let us remind you that the Hotel River Side Hotel is located in historical, commercial and architectural center of Tbilisi. Within walking distance of the city’s business district, major attractions and retail hub, making the hotel an ideal base from which to explore the city or conduct business. You will feel at home, and at the same time will enjoy the luxurious hotel comfort. At our Tiffany Bar Tbilisi you will try the most delicious food and drinks from the most distinguished cuisines of Georgia. We offer unique “gourmet” ser- vices to the guests. Special events such as a wedding ceremony or a birthday party are even more memorable in the world of Tiffany and River Side.
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 45 NEWS
American Medical IG Development West Invest Ltd. Mercure Tbilisi Old Town Centers, Georgia Georgia Ltd. Corp A Corp B Corp A Corp A At Mercure hotels, guests American Medical IG Development Geor- West Invest Ltd. is the find an atmosphere, which Centers is a regional health gia Ltd. was founded in largest distribution company makes every stay a unique services provider that owns 2010 and since then is of the of frozen products in Geor- experience. It is run by the and manages ambulatory most successful companies gia. Company has several teams of enthusiastic profes- care and outpatient care in Georgia. The company own brands: Bibilo, Mamalo, sionals. Mercure Tbilisi Old facilities in Eastern Europe is engaged in investing in West Fish, West Pork and also Town is infused with local and Eurasia. the field of real estate as is exclusive distributor of for- spirit in harmony with people AMC employs more well as design/construc- eign brands Divnoe, Qualiko and unique surroundings. The than 150 professionals and tion/development and and Ukrainian Chicken. It is hotel is uncompromisingly medical healthcare associ- subsequent management exclusive partner in Georgian committed to offering both ates, providing direct patient of shopping centers. Cur- of Simmons Farms (US) and high quality and genuinely care, emergency assistance rently the company owns Mironovski Hleboproduct enjoyable hotel experiences and access to all medical the shopping center “IG (Ukraine). here in Georgia. specialties, from Cardiology Mall Saburtalo”, successfully www.west-invest.ge www.mercure.com to Neurosurgery. American operating since 2011, with 17 Medical Centers enjoys affili- thousand square meter total ations with leading hospitals area, including 90 markets around the world, including and having 11,000 visitors Yale - New Heaven Hospital, daily. The company is build- and New York Presbyterian ing a new shopping center Hospital, where AMC is desig- “IG Mall Gldani”, with 33.6 nated as an affiliate hospi- thousand square meter area, tal. All American Medical scheduled to be finished by Centers and partner facilities March 2016. are recognized by the worlds igdevelopment.ge leading healthcare institu- tions and are fully licensed hospitals and clinics. American Medical Cen- ters is dedicated to provid- ing the highest standard of health available using the lat- est diagnostic and therapeu- tic protocols from the United States and European Union. The company is committed to providing evidence-based medicine, practiced by the best-trained clinicians avail- able, in a clean, safe facility, where quality-assurance is paramount. www.amcenters.com n ew members
46 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 NEWS n ew members
Mgaloblishvili Kipiani NCC Ltd. Sakcable JSC TBC Leasing JSC Dzidziguri (MKD) Corp B Corp B Corp B Corp B Mgaloblishvili Kipiani Dzid- NCC is a construction JSC Sakcable (“Sakca- JSC TBC Leasing was ziguri (MKD) is a full service company delivering high ble”) is the leading manu- established in 2003. The list law firm. With local, national quality products in 3 main facturer of cable products of TBCL clients vary from and international clients, directions: construction, engi- in the Republic of Georgia. medical, printing, transporta- MKD acts as legal counsel to neering and building materi- The Company was estab- tion companies, food and corporations, legal entities, als production. Management lished in 1958 to advance processing industry, to service and individuals alike, han- of the company consists of the country’s industrialization industry and trade, as well as dling nearly all key aspects professionals having man- ambitions through the manu- some agricultural companies of Georgian law. The firm agement experience in facture and distribution of all across Georgia. Prompt also provides legal advice urban infrastructure develop- copper and aluminum cable and flexible service makes and support to international ment, residential construction products. Recognizing the TBCL products attractive for clients in their investment and communication infra- historic heritage and future both newly established yet and project activities in the structure. Quality manage- potential of cable manu- developing and accom- region. ment has a high priority at facturing in the Republic of plished large companies. The mkd.ge NCC: technical department Georgia, in 2006 the Compa- company constantly strives supervises the ongoing works ny was acquired by an expe- to develop partnership with and responds quickly to any rienced management team. different local vendors and mismatches of the project With an ambitious capital thus offer clients flexible new design or requested quality. expenditure program, the products tailored to their Concrete quality is checked shareholders re-equipped needs. by independent chemical the factory with modern www.tbcleasing.ge laboratory on permanent equipment and operational bases. There is a responsible procedures. Sakcable has Terrace Hotel and person for safety in NCC who since emerged as the lead- Restaurant is developing safety instruc- ing producer and distributor Corp B tions for all kind of works and of internationally certified Exquisite desin and time- is arranging permanent train- copper and aluminum en- less elegance of 26-room ing sessions for personal. With ergy cables in Georgia and The terrace BoutiqueHotel is sufficient construction equip- one of the top producers in housed in the heart of Tbilisi’s ment and machinery, own the South Caucasus region. historical center. Providing a concrete and inert materials www.sakcable.ge unique blend of personalized factory, offices and ware- attention and essential ele- houses, the company has all ments for unforgetable city the necessary means to carry break, the Terrace Hotel’s out its duties successfully. All team is committed to provid- of these factors make NCC ing an exceptional experi- successful Company with a ence to each and every growing number of projects guest. and revenues. www.theterracetbilisi.com ensisi.ge
Garulay, Adrian, Mr. Visiting SpecOps Group Inc.
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 47 AmCham Company Members as of February 2016
PATRON MEMBERS Avon Cosmetics Georgia LLC Colliers International Frontera Resources Georgia 117 Tsereteli Ave. Georgia LLC 12 Paliashvili St. Tel: 2226805; Fax: 2226806 37/39 Kostava St., Tel: 2252412 www.avon.com Grato Business Center 7th Floor www.fronteraresources.com BP Exploration Georgia Tel: 2224477 24, S. Tsintsadze St. www.colliers.com Tel: 2593400 www.bpgeorgia.ge Georgian American Alloys, Inc. Best Western Hotel Tbilisi 200 S Biscayne Blvd Suite 5500, 11 Apakidze St. Miami FL 33131 USA
Tel: 2300777 Construction Service LLC Tel: (1)3053757560 2 Gen. Mazniashvili St., Rustavi Exxon Azerbaijan Ltd www.bestwesterntbilisi.ge www.gaalloys.com Landmark Suite 300, 95 Nizami St., Tel: (599)500559 Baku, AZ1010 Azerbaijan www.cs.ge Tel: (994-12) 4982460; Fax: (994-12) 4982472 Betsy’s Hotel / Prosperos Books Georgian American University www.exxonmobil.com 32/34 Makashvili St. / 8 Aleksidze St. 34 Rustaveli Ave. Cushman & Wakefield - Tel: 2206520; Fax: 2206519 Tel: 2987624, Fax: 2923592 Veritas Brown www.gau.ge www.betsyshotel.com 6th floor, Block 10, KPMG Georgia LLC 71 Vaja-Pshavela Ave. 3rd Floor, Besiki Business Center, Tel: 2474849 4 Besiki St., 0108 www.veritasbrown.com Georgian Audit & Consulting Tel: 2935713; Fax: 2982276 Company www.kpmg.ge BHP International Axis Business Pl, 2 Gamrekeli St. Office 305, 3rd Floor, Tel: 2904522; Fax: 2904523 2 Baratashvili St. www.gacc.com.ge Tel: 2103207 Dechert Georgia LLC PricewaterhouseCoopers www.bhp-int.com 7th floor, Pixel building, 7 Bambis Rigi St., 0105 34 Chavchavadze avenue Tel: 2508050; Fax: 2508060 Tel: 2334719 Georgian Logistic Group Ltd. www.pwc.com www.dechert.com 12 G. Kuchishvili St., 0179 Tel: 2422424 British American Tobacco www.glg.ge 71 Vazha Pshavela Ave. Tel: 2157500/01/02; Fax: 2157503 UGT www.bat.com Deloitte 17a Chavchavadze Ave., 7th floor 36a, L. Asatiani St., 0105 Tel: 2220211; Fax: 2220206 Tel: 2244566; Fax: 2244569 GMT Group www.ugt.ge www.deloitte.ge 4 Freedom Square Tel: 2988988; Fax: 2988910 Catoni & Co. Georgia www.gmt.ge 7 Dzmebi Zubalashvilebi St. Apt.22/23 Diplomat Georgia Tel: 2989230; Fax: 2922264 CORPORATE A MEMBERS 65, Kakheti Highway www.hapag-lloyd.com Gosselin Moving Georgia Tel: 2984950 3 M/D, Didi Digomi www.diplomat.ge Tel: 2596601/02/03; Fax: 2596600 www.moving.gosselingroup.eu Alliance Group Holding, JSC 47/57 M. Kostava St., 0179 Caucasia Trading Tel: 2424181; Fax: 2998112 Apt 11, Bld 7, 16 Krtsanisi St. DLA Piper Georgia LP www.agh.ge Tel: 14433050083; Fax: 10 Melikishvili St. Grant Thornton LLC 14433788388 Tel: 2509300; Fax: 2509301 61 D. Aghmashenebeli Ave. www.caucasiatrading.com www.dlapiper.com Tel: 2604406 www.grantthornton.ge
American Medical Centers, Georgia Caucasus University EY Georgia 12 Arakishvili, Tbilisi, 0179 Greco Group 77 Kostava St., Bld.6, 4th fl. 44 Kote Abkhazi St. Tel: 557313707 1 Nutsubidze St. Tel: 2377777; Fax: 2313226 Tel: 2439375; Fax: 2439376 www.amcenters.com Tel: 2393138; Fax: 2311107 www.cu.edu.ge www.ge.ey.com www.greco.ge
GT Group CH2M Hill F H Bertling Georgia Ltd. Auto Service Caucasus 48 B. Cholokashvili St. 5th Floor, GMT Plaza, Room 3, 4th Floor, 5 Shalikashvili St. Tel: 2740740 Freedom Square 154 Agmashenebeli Ave. Tel: 2208080 www.gtgroup.ge www.precisiontune.com Tel: 2474040; Fax: 2470210 Tel: 2252287 www.ch2m.com www.bertling.com
GULF Georgia by Sun Petrolium Georgia LLC Avis Georgia Aisi Chemonics International FINCA Bank Georgia Pixel Business Center, 4 Freedom Sq. 0105 5, 2nd Blind Alley, Chavchavadze St. 71 Vazha-Pshavela Ave. 3rd fl. 34 Chavchavadze Ave. Tel: 2923594 Tel: 2234311; Fax: 2234309 Tel: 2244949 Tel/Fax: 2496444 www.avis.ge www.chemonics.com www.finca.ge www.gulf.ge
48 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 Hilton Batumi Philip Morris USA2Georgia Bank of Georgia 13 Takaishvili St., Batumi 1 Tabidze St. 27 Kavtaradze St. 3 Pushkin St. Tel: 292092 Tel: 2439001; Fax: 2439005 Tel: 2421818 Tel: 2444134; Fax: 2983269 www.hilton.com www.philipmorrisinternational.com www.usa2georgia.com www.bog.com.ge
Bank Republic Iberia Refreshments, JSC ProCredit Bank West Invest Ltd. 2 Gr. Abashidze St. Tetri Khevi Hesi District, Orkhevi 154 Agmashenebeli Ave. 13a Lortkipanidze St. Tel: 2925555; Fax: 2925544 Tel: 2241091; Fax: 2241090 Tel: 2202222; Fax: 2202222-2226 Tel: 2997275 www.republic.ge www.pepsi.ge www.procreditbank.ge www.west-invest.ge
Basel LLC 49 Krtsanisi St. IG Development Georgia Ltd. Radisson BLU Iveria Hotel 47/57 Kostava St. 1 Rose Revolution Sq. CORPORATE B MEMBERS Tel: 2550110 Tel: 2987589 Tel: 2402200; Fax: 2402201 www.krtsanisi.com www.igdevelopment.ge www.radissonblu.com
Basis Bank JSC Adjara Group Hospitality 1 Ketevan Tsamebuli Ave. 1, 26 May Sq., 0179 Tel: 2922922; Fax: 2986548 IMSS Ltd. Ronny’s Ltd. Tel: 2300099 www.basisbank.ge 10a Bakhtrioni St. 3 Apt., 3 Vazha-Pshavela Ave. www.adjaragroup.com Tel: 2920928 Tel: 2472472 www.imss.ge www.ronnyspizza.com
Batumi International Container Terminal Air Astana Airlines JSC 11, Baku Street, 6010, Batumi Kavkaz Cement JSC Savaneti 99 Ltd. 5th Floor, Pixel Business Center, Tel: 422 276452 29 Andronikashvili St., 0189 Vilage Savaneti, Bolnisi Region 34 Chavchavadze Ave. www.bict.ge Tel: 2619090 Tel: 2605599 Tel: 2514999 www.kavkazcement.ge www.airastana.com
BDO LLC 2 Tarkhnishvili Str. SEAF Management LLC Vere Business Centre, 0179 Maersk Georgia LLC 7, Niko Nikoladze St. II Floor. Aliance Georgia Ltd Tel: 2545845; Fax: 2399204 6 Khetagurov St. Tel: 2998115; Fax: 2923533 33 Samurzakano St. www.bdo.ge Tel: 2200800; Fax: 2200815 www.seaf.ge Tel: 2243773 www.maerskline.com www.groupaliance.com
BGI Advisory Services Georgia Sheraton Metechi Palace Hotel 18 Rustaveli Ave., II floor Marriott Hotels, Resorts & Suites 20 Telavi St. Tel: 2997292; Fax: 2996615 13 Rustaveli Ave. Tel: 2772020; Fax: 2772120 AMK Law www.bgi.ge Tel: 2779200; Fax: 2779210 www.sheraton.com/tbilisi 1 Iv. Javakhishvili Sq., 0102 www.marriott.com Tel: 2054628 www.amklex.com BLB (Business Legal Bureau) 1 Shevchenko St, Apt.1 T&K Restaurants (McDonald’s Tel: 2995797 Microsoft Georgia LLC Georgia) www.blb.ge 34 Chavchavadze Ave. 1 Dzmebi Kakabadze St. Asseco Georgia Tel: 2970123 Tel: 2921246; Fax: 2251422 24 Mosashvili St. www.microsoft.com www.mcdonalds.ge Tel: 2720901 www.asseco.ge BLC Law Office 4 Gudiashvili Sq. Tel: 2922491; Fax: 2934526 www.blc.ge Oracle TBC Group Ayazağa Mevkii Meydan Sok. 7 Marjanishvili St.
Spring Giz Plaza Kat:11 Tel: 2272727; Fax: 2228503 Aversi Pharma 148/2 Aghmashenebeli Ave. Maslak, Istsnbul, Turkey www.tbc.com.ge Tel: 2987860 Tel: 577500151 BMC Gorgia www.aversi.ge www.oracle.com 140 Tsereteli Ave. Tel: 2960960 www.gorgia.ge TMC Global Professional Services PepsiCo Wimm-Bill-Dann 6001 Indian School Road NE, Suite Baker Tilly Georgia Ltd. Village Ponichala, Tbilisi 0165 190, Albuquerque, NM 87110, USA Meidan Palace, 44 Kote Abkhazi St. Canargo Georgia Tel: 2475290 Tel: (1 505) 8723146 Tel: 2505353; Fax: 2505353 70 Kostava St. www.wbd.ru www.tmcservices.com www.bakertillyinternational.com Tel: 2332527
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 49 AmCham Company Members as of February 2016
Capital Bank Gebrüder Weiss LLC Geo Steel LLC Imperial Tobacco International 1 Vertskhli St. Airport Adjacent Territory, 36 Davit Gareji St., Rustavi, 3700 Limited Representative Office in Tel: 2428888 Kakheti Hwy Tel: 2243794 Georgia www.capitalbank.ge Tel: 2710011 www.geosteel.com.ge 12 Dariali Turn, 0162 www.gw-world.com Tel: 2232438 www.imperial-tobacco.com
CaspiGroup Ltd. Globalink Logistics Group 29 Bochorma St. 14-A Shartava St, 2nd fl, Suite 7 Tel: 2550818 GeoCapital Microfinance Tel: 2253262; Fax: 2439002 Interco Travel Holding www.caspigroup.com Organization Ltd. www.globalinkllc.com 5 Tsereteli St, Kutaisi 36 Al. Kazbegi St. Tel: 431 267070 Tel: 2294343 www.geocapital.ge www.intercontinental.ge Caucasus Online LLC Gvinadze & Partners LLC 71 Vazha-Pshavela Ave. 44 Kote Abkhazi St, 0105 Tel: 2480048; Fax: 2480048 Tel: 2438970, Fax: 2438971 www.gvinadzeandpartners.ge International Black Sea www.caucasus.net Geocell 3 Gotua St. University David Agmashenebeli Alley 13 km, Tel: 2770100, ext. 7435; 2, 0131 Fax: 2770119 HeidelbergCement Georgia Tel: 2595005 Channel Energy (Poti) Limited www.geocell.ge Georgia LLC, By Petrocas Energy 18 Lermontov St. www.ibsu.edu.ge Group Tel: 2474747 52, David Agmashenebeli St., Poti www.heidelbergcement.ge Tel: (995493) 2-7-08-60 www.petrocasenergy.com GeoEngineering LLC JTI Caucasus 15a Tamarashvili St. Herbalife VII Floor, Pixel Business Center, Tel: 2311788; Fax: 2311787 34 Chavchavadze Ave. www.geoengineering.ge Bld. 4a Tamarashvili St., 0162 Tel: 2202929 Tel: 2604111 Château Mukhrani, J.S.C. www.jti.com Sangebro St. www.herbalife.com Tel: 2201878; Fax: 2201878; www.mukhrani.com Geomill LLC 4, Chirnakhuli St. Kordzahia, Jgenti Law Firm Tel: 2400000 Hotels And Preference Hualing 10 Petriashvili St. www.geomill.ge Tbilisi Citi & Co. Tel: 2921878 Hualing Tbilisi Sea New City, 0152 4 Besiki St. www.kjlaw.ge Tel: 2505025 Tel: 2920921 www.hotelspreference.ge
Georgian Airways 12 Rustaveli Ave. KSB Bank
Crowne Plaza Borjomi Tel: 2999730; Fax: 2999660 Hualing International Special 3 Ketevan Tsamebuli Ave. Baratashvili Str. 9, 1200 Borjomi www.georgian-airways.com Economic Zone Tel: 2550000, Fax: 2507707 Tel: 995 367 220260 25 Apt. 34/36 Kobuleti St. www.ksb.ge www.cpborjomi.com Tel: 591005900 www.hualing.cn
Georgian Beer Company
Crystal, MFO JSC 3311 Saguramo, Mtskheta District Leavingstone 12a Al. Kazbegi Ave. 72 Tamar Mepe St. Kutaisi, 4600 Tel: 2437770 Hydrolea LLC Tel: 431253343 www.geobeer.ge Tel: 2105103 11 A. Apakidze St. www.leavingstone.com www.crystal.ge Tel: 790420015 www.hydrolea.com
Georgian Hospitality Group Duty Free Georgia Legal Partners Associated LLC 22 Peritsvaleba St., 0103 3rd floor, 4 Besiki St., Office #203, Besiki Business Center, Tel: 2987789 IGroup Besiki Business Center 197/24g Kazbegi Ave. 4 Besiki St. 0108 www.ghg.ge Tel: 2430150 Tel: 2308483 Tel: 2200203; Fax: 2250458 www.dfg.ge www.igroupgeorgia.com www.lpa.ge
Georgian Integrated Systems Efes Brewery in Georgia - ILF Beratende Ingenieure ZT (GiS) Lemondo LLC Lomisi JSC Office 1, 85 Abashidze St., 0163 GmbH Branch in Georgia 13 Dzotsenidze St. Village Natakhtari, Mtskhta Region 15 Tamar Mepe Ave. Tel: 2243724 Tel: 2193377 Tel: 2357225 Tel: 2199453 www.gis.ge www.lemondo.com www.natakhtari.ge www.ilf.com
EVEX Medical Corporation Georgian Resources Company Imedi TV Liberty Bank JSC 40 Vazha-Pshavela Ave. 3-5 Kazbegi St. 51 Ljubljana St. 74 Chavchavadze Ave. Tel: 2550505 Tel: 2936676 Tel: 2464646 Tel: 2555500; Fax: 2912269 www.evex.ge www.georgianresources.com www.imedi.ge www.libertybank.ge
50 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 Luca Polare Paine Stevens LLC Sakcable JSC NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS 54 Oniashvili St. 1 Ivane Javakhishvili Sqr. Suite 414, 19 Gamrekeli St. Tel: 2990399 Tel: 2903211, Fax: 2903291 Tel: 2221418 www.lucapolare.com www.painestevens.com www.sakcable.ge Agricultural University of Georgia 140 David Aghmashenebeli Alley Sayali Ltd. Tel: 2594901 Mercure Tbilisi Old Town Policy and Management 6 Ushangi Chkheidze St. www.agruni.edu.ge 9 Gorgasali St., Old Tbilisi, 0105 Consulting Group (PMCG) Tel: 2951212; Tel: 2006060 61 Aghmashenebeli Ave, 4th floor www.sayali.ge www.mercure.com Tel: 2921171 www.pmcg.ge American Friends of Georgia 77 Nutsubidze St. Silknet Ltd. Tel: 2397174; Fax: 2388495 95 Tsinamdzgvrishvili St. www.afgeorgia.org Mgaloblishvili Kipiani Dzidziguri Tel: 2910345; Poti Free Industrial Zone (MKD) www.silknet.com Office 24, 71 Vazha-Pshavela Ave. Pixel Building, 4th floor, Tel: 2553880 34 Chavchavadze Ave. CARE International in the www.mkd.ge Tel: 2485485 Caucasus SRG Investments LLC www.potifreezone.ge 37 Tsagareli St., 0162 49a Chavchavadze Ave, 3rd floor Tel: 2291941 Tel: 2253581 www.care-caucasus.org.ge www.silkroad.ge Mina JSC 4 Besiki St. Publicis Hepta Tel: 2449981/82/83; Fax: 2449980 17 V. Jorbenadze St. Europe Foundation www.mina.com.ge Tel: 2745672; Fax: 2745671 Tbilisi View www.publicishepta.com 4a, Freedom Sq. 3 Kavsadze Str. Tel: 2999980 Tel: 2253942; Fax 2252763 (ext. 112) www.tbilisiview.ge www.epfound.org Mira-Group Ltd. Brose Street Turn,Old Tbilisi Qebuli Climate 101, Tsereteli Ave. Tel: 2242244/55/88 TBC Leasing JSC Free University of Tbilisi Tel: 2356201 www.riverside.ge 8 Bulachauri St., 0161 140 David Agmashenebeli Alley www.qebuli.ge Tel: 2272727 Tel: 2200901 www.tbcleasing.ge www.freeuni.edu.ge
National Center for Dispute Rakeen Development LLC Resolution Teliani Valley JSC Pixel Business Center, Georgian Wine Association 4/7 Rustaveli St., Rustavi 2 Marshal Gelovani Ave. 34 Chavchavadze Ave. 12 Mtatsminda St. Tel: 2193406 Tel: 2313245; Fax: 2313249 Tel: 2933393; Fax: 2933993 Tel: 2505457 www.ncdr.ge www.telianivalley.com www.rakeen.ge
Terrace Hotel & Restaurant Good Governance Initiative Pixel Center, 8th Floor, 34, NCC Ltd. Resolution Insurance Brokers, 7 Polikarpe Kakabadze St. 9, Erekle II turn Chavchavadze Ave. Georgia LLC Tel: 2999001 Tel: 2725088 61, Gorgasali St. www.theterracetbilisi.com Tel: 2243111 www.ensisi.ge Tel: 2936305 www.ggi.ge www.rib.ge Theco Ltd. 16 Chikovani St. QSI International School of Noblet Media Tel: 592107515 Georgia Ap. 25, 34-36 Kobuleti St. Rixos Hotel Borjomi www.tbilisia.ru Village Zurgovani, Tbilisi Tel: 2396300 16 Meskheti St., Borjomi Tel: 2537670; Fax: 2322607 www.nobletmedia.com Tel: 2292292 www.qsi.org http://borjomi.rixos.com University of Georgia 77a Kostava St. Tel: 2552222
Nodia, Urumashvili & Parnters www.ug.edu.ge Salvation Army Office #28, IV Block, Rooms Hotel 16 Ikalto St. 71 Vazha-Pshavela Ave. 14 Merab Kostava St. Tel: 2333786; Fax: 2330227 Tel: 2207407 Tel: 2020099, 2730099 www.salvationarmy.org VD Capital www.nplaw.ge www.roomshotels.com 77 Kostava St., 0175 Tel: 2363672; Fax: 2364302 San Diego State University - Georgia Nutrimax Ltd. Rustavi Azot Ltd. 3 Chavchavadze Ave. 68a Rustavi Highway, 0165 Wings and Freeman Capital 2 Mshvidoba St. Rustavi-3702 Tel: 2290820 Tel: 2305335 Green Building, 6, Marjanishvili St. Tel: 995341270900 www.sdsu.edu www.nutrimax.ge www.azot.ge Tel: 2940051; Fax: 2940053 www.wfcapital.ge
Transparency International Overall Management Group Rustavi Steel LLC Wissol Georgia Georgia (OMG) Inc. 12 Y. Gagarin St., 3700 Rustavi 74b Chavchavadze Ave. 61 Agmashenebeli Ave. 0102 29 Marjanishvili St. Tel/Fax: 260 66 99 Tel: 2915315; Fax: 2915615 Tel: 2932129 Tel: 2436052; Fax: 2436052 www.rmp.ge www.wissol.ge www.transparency.ge
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 51 NEWS
Members Appreciation Party at Holiday Inn
On December 10th, AmCham Georgia hosted a Members Appreciation Reception and networking event at the Holiday Inn Lounge. It’s been an exceptional year for AmCham, with more events, more initiatives on policy issues, and more new members than ever before.
Guests enjoyed cocktails, mulled and Georgian wine along with a delicious turkey buffet for those who didn’t get a chance to celebrate Thanksgiving properly. AmCham Vice-President Michael Cowgill greeted the guests and briefly highlighted the achievements and challenges of the past year. Members used the opportunity to reconnect with friends, colleagues and fellow representatives of member companies.
52 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 NEWS
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 53 NEWSNEWS
American Friends of Georgia Annual Charity Gala
Over $110,000 was collected during the charity gala event held in Tbilisi by American Friends of Georgia (AFG) on December 12 at the Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel. The Dzegvi Shelter and Mercy Center Hospice are to be the beneficiaries of the charity campaign. Despite certain economic difficulties the activity of Georgian businesses has been unprecedentedly high this year. The Dzegvi Shelter Community near Tbilisi started as an orphanage for street children in 1995. It was AFG’s big success story with 120 former street children growing up to full productive lives. Since 2010, it has become a shelter for people who cannot live independently or have nowhere to go such as mentally ill, disabled, former street children, poor elderly or abandoned single mothers with young children. The Mercy Center Hospice, Nursing School and Home Care Program was started by Abbess Mariam in 2003 with AFG’s assistance. This is the first hospice in Georgia with the hospice nursing school and home care service. The 7 in-patients are cared for in a small hospice next to the Transfiguration Convent. Nursing graduates care for over 100 terminally ill elderly in their homes.
54 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 NEWSNEWS
february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 55 NEWS
Board Of Directors 2015
Sarah Williamson PRESIDENT
R. Michael Cowgill Irakli Baidashvili Andrew Coxshall First Vice-President Vice-President & Treasurer Director
Esben Emborg Lasha Gogiberidze Badri Japaridze Director Director Director
AmCham Executive Director Writers George Welton Nino Bakradze, Amy Binder, Helena Bedwell, Maia Edilashvili, Lika Jorjoliani, Tatjana Montik. Copy Editor Alexander Melin
Marketing & Promotion Saba Gvetadze and Salome Tkeshelashvili
Promotional Design Levan Baratashvili
Magazine Design and Layout Special thanks to BP Georgia, as well as to all the AmCham Georgia staff. Giorgi Megrelishvili Without your help, this issue of Investor.ge magazine would not be possible. 56 | Investor.ge • february-march/2016 NEWS
Steve Johnson Ted Jonas ketti kvartskhava Director Director Director
Chris Schlueter Betsy Haskell, K.G. Moore Director Founding Advisor Ex-Officio Member
george welton Exec. Director
AmCham Georgia Patron Members:
© The American Chamber of Commerce in Georgia, 2015 arising from the use of any product or service advertised within All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be re-printed, or the pages of this issue. reproduced or utilized in any form or by electronic, mechanical Investor.ge is printed by cezanne or other means now known or hereafter invented, including AmCham Georgia: photocopying and recording, or in any information storage or rd retrieval system without permission. 36a Lado Asatiani Street, 3 floor. Tel: 2 22-69-07 The opinions expressed in this magazine do not reflect the opinion [email protected] of the American Chamber of Commerce in Georgia nor its Board [email protected] │ www.amcham.ge Members or staff, unless otherwise stated. AmCham Georgia neither endorses, nor can be held liable for any eventuality www.investor.ge february-march/2016 • Investor.ge | 57
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