The implementation of the Eagle Hills project is expected to bring around ₾500 million annually to Georgia’s budget solely from taxes, with an additional ₾200 million per year coming from a 33% dividend, said on Wednesday Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze. 

In his interview with Imedi TV, Kobakhidze also estimated the project’s total contribution to the Georgian economy at approximately ₾11 billion.

Commenting on criticism from radical opposition parties regarding the project, Kobakhidze said such statements reflect “the darkness prevailing in certain segments of Georgia’s political spectrum”.

“The discussions we are hearing from the radical opposition reveal this darkness. Initially, they claimed there was insufficient information. However, we have provided detailed information - personally, along with the Minister of Economy and other team members - about the terms of the agreement”, Kobakhidze explained.

Addressing concerns over commercial secrecy, the Prime Minister emphasised that such confidentiality was standard practice under international norms and Georgian law. 

“This campaign was initiated by the leader of the Lelo party, who years ago requested that the agreement between his consortium and the government remain confidential. You cannot blame him for that - it is proper practice. Commercial agreements, by their nature, are confidential. For example, Eagle Hills operates not only in Georgia but in several other countries, where agreements might differ. In Georgia, the state receives a 33% share of profits from this project. In other countries, it might have been 20% or even zero. Imagine post-factum complaints from another state saying, ‘Why didn’t I get the same terms?’ or the company requesting to retain a smaller share. Such confidentiality is in the interest of the commercial entity”, he added.

Kobakhidze also highlighted the project’s economic and employment impact.

“We have disclosed all key aspects. The project will contribute ₾500 million annually to the budget from taxes alone, plus an additional ₾200 million annually from a 33% dividend. The overall contribution to the economy is around ₾11 billion - this is the direct impact; the indirect effect could be twice as large. As for employment, 24,000 jobs will be created during the project implementation period, and 8,000 permanent jobs after completion”, the PM continued.

He dismissed claims that the contract included plans for mosque construction on the site, describing such assertions as “absurd” and emphasising transparency.