Greece to unveil €1 billion economic package at Thessaloniki International Fair

The Greek government is preparing an economic support package exceeding €1 billion to be unveiled at the Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF). Deputy Minister of National Economy and Finance Nikos Papathanasis indicated that the measures are designed to provide long-term relief rather than temporary benefits, focusing on the middle class, pensioners, families, young people, and small-to-medium enterprises.

Key proposed measures for employees include potential reductions in social security contributions and a roadmap for wage increases. While the reinstatement of 13th and 14th monthly salaries for the public sector is not currently planned, the government is looking at increasing the daily value of meal vouchers from €6 to €10. Additionally, targets for the minimum wage and average full-time salaries are being revised, with goals aiming for a minimum wage of approximately €1,350–€1,400 by 2030.

For the self-employed and businesses, the package aims to reduce operational and tax costs. The government also intends to address housing issues by providing incentives to increase the availability of rental properties. Papathanasis dismissed concerns regarding a potential recession following the conclusion of the EU Recovery and Resilience Facility, citing positive growth forecasts and the upcoming 2026–2030 National Development Program.