Economic Chamber of Greece backs new FDI incentive framework

The Economic Chamber of Greece (OEE) has characterized a new legislative framework for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) as a strategic step for the country. The bill aims to create a cohesive and functional framework to attract high-value-added investments in critical economic sectors by addressing long-standing barriers to foreign capital.

OEE President Konstantinos Kollias emphasized that the success of the new regime depends on several factors: the implementation of rapid yet secure oversight mechanisms, realistic eligible cost limits, and the immediate issuance of necessary ministerial decisions. He noted that the restructuring of the FDI Directorate and the creation of a new FDI Incentives Department must be staffed with experienced personnel to act as an investment accelerator while preventing fraud.

To ensure compliance, the OEE stressed the necessity of full alignment with European Commission rules to avoid future legal challenges or the mandatory return of subsidies. The OEE also expressed interest in participating in a tripartite committee tasked with conducting sample audits on at least 30% of investment projects annually. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding the minimum eligible cost threshold of 10 million euros, which may potentially exclude research and technology-based investments.