Investment pause in Georgia

After the October 1 elections, analysts have observed that the investment flow into the country has slowed down. During the first several months of 2012, investments were not many in Georgia. This fact was explained by the uncertain results of elections. However, the Georgian Dream leadership optimistically hopes that the situation will improve. Meanwhile after the October elections certain investment projects were stopped. In particular, some changes in the energy policy of the country resulted in suspending investments into different energy projects: Mtkvari and Paravan Hydro energy power stations. The possible change of the gambling business legislation also slowed down inflow in this direction. The news of the return of the parliament from Kutaisi back to Tbilisi resulted in the refusal from certain groups of businessmen who have invested in Kutaisi brand hotel’s construction. With this background, the ruling authorities still hope that the country will recover from the situation. The recent visit of Israeli businessmen to Georgia and their meeting with Prime Minister Bidzina Ivanishvili showed that there could be serious investment policy implemented in Georgia– in particular from Israel. Finance Minister Nodar Khaduri is sure that 2013 will be very successful year for the country in this direction.