Six Georgian textile companies have produced one million face masks in the last two weeks in an effort to help stem the spread of the new coronavirus.

Two more companies will also start the production from Monday.

Photo: Government of Georgia press office

The locally produced face masks will be gifted to people above 70 who suffer from chronic diseases, as well as healthcare workers, patrol police officers, border guards and cashiers.

Later they will also be available on sale at pharmacies.

Photo: Government of Georgia press office

Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia and Health MInister Ekaterine Tikaradze visited one of the companies in the black seaside region of Adjara today.

PM Gakharia underscored the importance of local production amid the global face mask deficit. He also welcomed that these companies employ around 3,200 people.