First batches of Georgia’s Borzhomi mineral water arrive in Russia

(Interfax – MOSCOW, May 22, 2013) Georgia has resumed exports of Borzhomi mineral water to Russia after a long-term pause.

“On May 22, two trucks with Georgian mineral water Borzhomi were cleared at the Mamontovo customs office of the Moscow region customs of the Central Customs Department. The vehicles came from Georgia and went to suppliers in Moscow stores after customs procedures were completed,” the PR department of the Central Customs Department said in a statement.

“Borzhomi mineral water is exported to Russia without customs fees, which allows it to avoid an excessively high retail price. Distributers just pay VAT,” the statement obtained by Interfax on Wednesday said.

“The agreement stipulates regular supplies of 50-60 trucks monthly. Borzhomi producer supplies its products to Russia itself, then sends them to a subsidiary, so the risk of counterfeit product delivery is minimal,” the statement said.

Russian consumer rights watchdog has allowed a number of Georgian wine and mineral water producers, including Borzhomi, to resume supplies to Russia.

Russia banned exports of Georgian wine and mineral water in 2006 due to quality issues.