The Georgian government has postponed the introduction of restrictions on intercity minibus routes for almost two years. According to the decree, the new rules will come into effect on the Tbilisi-Batumi line from June 1, 2027, and on other routes, including Tbilisi-Kutaisi and Zugdidi-Tbilisi, from December 1, 2027.

Initially, the changes were planned to be introduced from June 2025, then postponed to January 2026, and now the deadlines have been shifted again. According to the new rules, regular routes over a distance of 150 km must be operated by M3 category buses - with a capacity of more than eight passengers and a total weight of over 5 tons.

Minibuses are still allowed for irregular routes and international transportation. As of 2024, there are more than 5,500 M3 buses registered in Georgia, which will allow a gradual transition to new standards without creating sharp disruptions in passenger transportation.