The EU-funded project ‘Georgia on the European Way: Creation of an Effective Model for DCFTA and SME Strategy Implementation‘ will be presenting its study on the results of DCFTA-related mappings of Georgian SMEs and CSOs on Friday, March 9 in Tbilisi.
The study represents the initial stage of a project, implemented under the EU4Business initiative, which aims to strengthen the capacities of Georgian civil society organisations (CSOs) in relation to implementation of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA) and the small- and medium-sized enterprises (SME) strategy for Georgia.
The first part of the study includes the survey results of Georgian CSOs in all nine regions of Georgia and the Adjara Autonomous Republic. It analyses the capacities of regional CSOs, particularly their awareness and engagement in economic affairs and EU-related issues. Furthermore, it assesses their willingness and preparedness to contribute to the DCFTA/SME strategy implementation.
The second study covers the survey results of SMEs mapping in 61 Georgian municipalities. SMEs that are already exporting or have the potential to export were interviewed about their intentions to use DCFTA provided opportunities, as well as challenges they face in order to meet different quality requirements that are precondition for entering into the EU single market.
The surveys were carried out in Summer 2017 and are intended to become an indispensable tool for later project activities: namely, capacity building trainings for regional CSOs, who are to further assist and advise local SMEs on accessing and benefiting from the EU single market. Furthermore, Local Advisory Councils on the DCFTA are to be launched to engage regional CSOs, SMEs and decision makers and work together to eliminate problems related to DCFTA and SME strategy implementation.
The event will be held in English and Georgian, with simultaneous translation provided.
Date
9/03/2018, 12:00
Participation
Anyone wanting to attend is requested to email info@gip.ge before close of business on 7 March.