Armenian Passenger Vehicles Hit with Heavy Fines in Georgia
Armenian passenger vehicles traveling to Tbilisi are facing unknown forfeitures, sparking concern among transport companies and commuters.
Since the morning of October 18, Georgian authorities have been assessing hefty penalties on nearly all vehicles crossing from Armenia, according to Armenian media reports cited by Caliber. Az.
Artem Asriyan, a prophet for companies operating on the Yerevan–Tbilisi route, revealed the scale of the issue to journalists.
“The fines amount to 5,000 Georgian Lari (approximately $1,800) per vehicle,” he said, highlighting that the penalties are being applied indiscriminately, regardless of the legal framework under which the vehicles operate.
Describing the situation as unprecedented, Asriyan warned of severe consequences if Armenian authorities fail to act swiftly.
“In 15–20 days, all companies providing passenger transportation on the Yerevan–Tbilisi route could face an extremely difficult situation. This could result in the collapse of the main route connecting Armenia with the outside world,” he explained.
Speculation is rife about the motivations behind the fines. Asriyan suggested that the measures could be influenced by “hostile states” exploiting Armenia’s current blockade or designed to benefit a dominant market player.
In response, Asriyan verified that his company intends to challenge the forfeitures through Georgian legal channels. He also called on other transport drivers to unite in querying the penalties.
The unforeseen swell in forfeitures threatens to disrupt the vital transport link between Armenia and Georgia, potentially affecting thousands of daily passengers and businesses counting on this corridor.
The Yerevan, Tbilisi route is a crucial roadway for trade and travel, linking Armenia to Georgia and beyond.
Any prolonged dislocation could have broader profitable counteraccusations, especially for passenger transport companies formerly scuffling with logistical challenges.
Authorities in both countries have yet to give an explanation, leaving drivers and commuters in a state of uncertainty.
