In Short : The Asian Development Bank’s support for Rustavi Azot Indorama’s fertilizer project in Georgia highlights a strategic push toward energy efficiency and industrial decarbonization. The initiative aims to modernize fertilizer production, reduce energy consumption and emissions, and strengthen food security while demonstrating how sustainable finance can support cleaner industrial growth in emerging markets.
In Detail : MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed a $50 million loan agreement with JSC Rustavi Azot (Rustavi Azot Indorama) to modernize the company’s fertilizer production facilities in Georgia with energy-efficient technologies.
The Rustavi Azot Indorama Energy-Efficient Fertilizer Project aims to improve energy efficiency in fertilizer production while promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Georgia, contributing to the country’s Vision 2030 and Nationally Determined Contribution targets.
“We are glad to support Georgia’s private sector in projects such as this, that are designed for developing and strengthening decarbonization and energy-efficient technologies,” said ADB Country Director for Georgia Lesley Bearman Lahm. “This project resonates with ADB’s country partnership strategy for Georgia, aimed at advancing the transition to a green and integrated economy.”
The project will support the modernization of the company’s existing ammonia and high-density ammonium nitrate production facilities, including the installation of energy-efficient technologies. This integrated approach will strengthen fertilizer supply chains, and reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by 120 kilotons of carbon dioxide equivalent per year, making this project highly cost-effective at mitigating extreme weather events. A portion of the loan has been structured as a green loan, consistent with the Green Loan Principles issued by the Loan Market Association, with proceeds allocated to eligible green projects.
“We deeply value ADB’s trust and partnership. This financing will significantly advance the modernization and decarbonization journey of Rustavi Azot following its acquisition by Indorama, enabling us to deploy energy-efficient technologies that benefit both industry and the environment. We look forward to further enhancing Rustavi Azot’s competitiveness through ongoing development and investment initiatives,” said Indorama Corporation Vice Chairman Amit Lohia.
ADB also mobilized $500,000 in technical assistance to support capacity building for smallholder farmers in Georgia, with a focus on women. The project will promote resilient agriculture practices, sustainable soil management, and efficient fertilizer application to prevent further land degradation, restore soil health, and boost agricultural productivity.
The project will contribute to ADB’s ambition to invest $40 billion for food systems transformation in Asia and the Pacific from 2022 to 2030, including $11 billion through the private sector.
JSC Rustavi Azot, established in 1956 in Georgia, is the only fertilizer manufacturer in Georgia and the largest chemical and nitrogen fertilizer producer in the South Caucasus. It is fully owned by Indorama Corporation, ADB’s multinational client headquartered in Singapore with global operations across the agricultural value chain.
ADB has supported Georgia since 2007 and is one of the country’s largest multilateral development partners. ADB’s loans, grants, and technical assistance to Georgia total $5 billion. ADB’s five-year country partnership strategy with Georgia aims to help the nation develop into a green and inclusive regional gateway while supporting sovereign and private sector investments, policy reforms, capacity building, resilient infrastructure, and regional integration.
ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—50 from the region.
