Greece posts €4.48 bn primary surplus in first half of 2026

The Greek state budget for the January‑June 2026 period recorded a primary surplus of €4.48 billion, more than double the target of €1.95 billion. The overall public‑finance deficit was limited to €941 million, well below the forecast €3.136 billion. Tax revenues reached €33.92 billion, surpassing the goal by €679 million (2.1%). After excluding one‑off items from the Egnaia highway concession and the second instalment of the casino licence fee, regular tax receipts still amounted to €33.48 billion, keeping the 2.1 % over‑target margin. Net revenues amounted to €35.995 billion, an increase of €1.063 billion over the estimate. Adjustments for heterochronous payments and other transfers reduced the apparent surplus, leaving a net excess of €159 million against the budgetary target. The results reflect stronger‑than‑expected fiscal performance despite modest spending, which was €1.13 billion below plan.