An additional budget of 2 billion euros will be tabled next week, the Greek Finance Minister, Mr Christos Staikouras said.
Speaking to Parapolitika 90.1 radio, the the Greek Finance Minister left open the possibility of extending the reduction of VAT to tourism and catering and stated that the goal in 2023 to abolish the solidarity contribution for all and the reduction of insurance contributions. He clarified that the Greek government will continue to support households and businesses as much as possible.
Concerning the cash
At the same time, Mr Staikouras noted that the cash is at a safe level and added that the government is concerned that it will take the best measures to strengthen the middle class and the vulnerable groups.
He also said that the reduction of the property tax ENFIA by 360 million euros is an additional aid. AS for the reduction of VAT on food, he stressed that it will depend on the fiscal space and that any interventions will pass on consumers and will not be lost in the supply chain.
As for the minimum wage
The Finance Minister reiterated that the increase of the minimum wage should be brave and realistic. He noted that, when there is an external economic shock there is a risk of adverse developments that will affect the real economy.
As for the fiscal targets in 2023, he noted that “In May we will see how the macroeconomic situation in Europe is evolving”. Mr. Staikouras added that we need to be serious in pursuing fiscal policy in order to have primary surpluses.
Recovery Fund
He further noted that the Greek government has acted in a timely manner and said that high growth is not enough, as it should be sustainable.
“We are looking for stability, as quick decisions are made by strong autonomous governments,” said the Greek Finance Minister, Mr Christos Staikouras.
Latest News
BoG: Feb. Current Account Deficit up by 1.8bln
At current prices, exports dropped by 10.3% (‑10.7% at constant prices) and imports grew by 5.7% (9.4% at constant prices).
Greece Becoming a ‘Refuge’ for German Pensioners
The government's policies to attract foreign property buyers to boot the economy is working, reports German newspaper Handelsblatt
Iran Activates Air Defense System- Reports of Attack by Israel
An Iranian official said explosions reported by Iran's media were the result of the activation of the country's air defense system, yet media reports attribute them to a drone attack by Israel
Poll: Greeks, EU Citizens Eager to Vote in European Elections
EU citizens are eager to vote in the upcoming elections for the European Parliament in June, with eight in 10 saying the current geopolitical situation makes voting imperative
Mitsotakis-Erdogan Meeting in Ankara Fixed for May 13
The Greek PM himself made the announcement from Brussels on Thursday, while he also responded to a question on Athens' intent to create a marine park in the central Aegean, an environmental initiative
Greece Aims to Boost Energy Capacity, Economy with Offshore Wind Farms
Greece’s Energy Ministry is pushing legislation to accelerate the construction of the first floating wind farms in Greek seas
Reuters: Greek Economy Surges After Decade of Pain
Nevertheless, the article also highlights some of the challenges facing the country, with a falling birthrate and labor shortages posing a threat to the long-term outlook
IMF: Greek Growth in 2024 at 2%; Debt to Ease to 158.8% of GDP This Year
Projected consumer prices are forecast to rise by 2.7%
Major Increase in Russian Natgas Imports by Greece in 1Q 2024
Russian state natgas exporter Gazprom dominated imports to the country, mostly through the overland pipeline entering via a northern frontier pipeline
Lamda Development Announces First Profitable Year for The Ellinikon Project
The ATHEX-listed developer reported 206 million euros in EBITDA for FY23, a 69%-percent increase from 2022 results