The European Commission’s enlargement report indicates that Georgia has made advancements in its competition policy and consumer protection efforts, supporting its path toward EU integration. It highlights that the Georgian Competition and Consumer Protection Agency (GCCA) has effectively strengthened its law enforcement mechanisms.
In the area of consumer rights, the report notes that Georgia has made notable progress during the review period, implementing several of the European Commission’s 2023 recommendations. The country has developed an institutional and legal foundation for consumer protection that aligns with EU standards. Additionally, the recent adoption of the "Law on Tourism“ further aligned Georgia's policies with EU consumer protections. In 2023, GCCA became a member of the International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network (ICPEN), enhancing international cooperation in this sector. The report also advises Georgia to continue aligning its national legal framework with EU standards and to focus on strong enforcement practices.
Regarding competition policy, the report notes that Georgia’s legislative base largely aligns with EU standards. „Significant procedural and substantive updates to the Competition Law took effect on January 1, 2024. The definition of annual turnover was revised, and the time frame for complaint withdrawal by complainants was limited. Updates to the cooperation program provisions were also implemented, aligning with the ECN+ Directive, which aims to strengthen national competition authorities in the EU. Additionally, penalties were introduced for obstructing on-site inspections (known as “dawn raids”), and adjustments were made to various subordinate regulations, including the merger notification procedure. Institutional restructuring within the GCCA was also completed.“
The report also provides statistics on significant cases managed by the GCCA between June 15, 2023, and August 30, 2024. These cases included two investigations into alleged abuse of a dominant market position, four inquiries into potential anti-competitive agreements, and four cases involving unfair competition.
Regarding the state aid policy, the report notes that the GCCA has completed an analysis of gaps and priorities in this direction, which is an important development. It recommends strengthening the institutional framework and enforcement mechanisms in this area. In 2023, no decisions were made regarding state aid, but information was gathered on the minimal amounts of state aid granted.
FYI: According to the report, between 2022 and 2024, the GCCA was involved in an EU-funded Twinning project. Experts estimate that during this period, compliance of competition law with EU legislation increased from 60% to 75%, while alignment with consumer protection standards improved from 70% to 85%.
