The presence of Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) is rapidly expanding in Georgia, particularly in Tbilisi, where the slogan “Build Your Dreams” prominently decorates the vehicles produced by BYD, China’s largest automaker. This development signals a significant shift in the automotive landscape, as Chinese brands begin to challenge traditional dominance in the Georgian market.
Between January and July 2025, China accounted for just over 10 percent of Georgia’s imports, ranking fourth behind Turkey, the United States, and Russia. The automotive sector is particularly crucial, with passenger cars representing roughly 20 percent of all imports. This figure underscores the importance of cars not only for domestic demand but also for Georgia’s role as a regional re-export hub.
Surge in Electric Vehicle Imports
The trend toward electric vehicles is gaining momentum in Georgia. In the first half of 2025, the country imported 3,616 EVs, an impressive 88 percent increase from 1,922 during the same period in 2024. Until recently, China was not among the top five suppliers of cars to Georgia, but it has now risen to become the second-largest EV supplier after the United States. Overall imports of Chinese cars, both electric and conventional, have surged by approximately 79 percent this year.
Despite this growth, electric vehicles still represent a relatively small segment of the Georgian automotive market. The country has a high car ownership rate, with nearly one in every two people owning a vehicle. A predominant factor in this landscape is the longstanding reliance on affordable second-hand cars from the United States, which are favored for their ease of repair. This dependence helps explain why the US maintains its status as Georgia’s primary car supplier.
While China faces challenges in competing with US brands in conventional car imports, its ability to capture nearly 12 percent of the EV market in just a few months indicates a shifting consumer preference. EVs are increasingly appealing due to their lower operating costs compared to gasoline-powered vehicles. However, for widespread adoption, Georgia will need to enhance its infrastructure, particularly in terms of charging stations, which are currently lacking.
Political and Economic Implications
The rise of Chinese EVs in Georgia is intertwined with broader geopolitical dynamics. The ruling Georgian Dream party has cultivated a pro-China stance, with Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze lauding China as a model of state modernization. This political alignment raises questions about Georgia’s relationships with Western nations, particularly as its ties with the United States and the European Union appear to be weakening.
In a notable turn of events, the BYD Center in Tbilisi has taken over the former headquarters of the United National Movement, previously the governing party and now a major opposition force. This shift illustrates how economic collaboration with China is reshaping the political landscape in Georgia. Transparency International Georgia recently highlighted this trend, noting a growing alignment with authoritarian regimes that are often at odds with Western interests.
As Georgia navigates its evolving relationships with global powers, the increasing presence of Chinese electric vehicles may signify a deeper shift in both economic and political alliances. The strategic interests of China in capturing a larger share of the automotive market align with the ruling party’s objectives, potentially heralding a new era for Georgia’s economy. The implications of this growing partnership could extend beyond the automotive sector, influencing various aspects of Georgian society and governance.
