The EU Integration Committee heard the report of the Georgian Competition and Consumer Agency (GCCA), introduced by the Agency Chair, Irakli Lekvinadze.

At the meeting, attention was drawn to the approximation with the EU’s legal framework. In particular, the importance of adopting the Law on Consumer Protection was emphasized, as it represents a major step forward toward establishing modern European standards for consumer rights.

According to the reporter, as a result of the reforms carried out, the level of approximation with the relevant EU legislation has reached 75% in the area of competition and 85% in the field of consumer protection.

Irakli Lekvinadze dwelt on the reforms implemented in the Law on Competition, which have significantly strengthened enforcement mechanisms and made it possible to respond effectively to violations occurring within the business sector.

He noted that through the Agency’s efforts, monitoring of the pharmaceutical market was conducted, resulting in the introduction of an electronic prescription system and a reference pricing model.

He answered questions concerning issues related to the consolidation of large companies and the activities of insurance organizations. According to the reporter, in the field of consumer protection, the Agency actively conducts informational campaigns in schools, academic circles, and other interested groups, thereby contributing to raising public awareness.

Irakli Lekvinadze also highlighted the Agency’s achievements on the international fora, noting that the Agency has twice received the global award of the World Bank and ICPEN.

He added that Georgia has been elected to serve as the President of the International Consumer Protection and Enforcement Network (ICPEN) for 2026–2027. In his assessment, the strengthened legislative framework and improved enforcement mechanisms create a foundation for establishing high standards of fair competition, transparency, and consumer protection in the Georgian market.

The Chair of the Committee, Levan Makhashvili, expressed his commitment to supporting all necessary steps within the Committee to further advance consumer protection and to better serve the interests and needs of citizens.