Greece rolls out major farmer payment package and €20 million rice subsidy

The Greek Ministry of Rural Development and Food will begin a large-scale payment cycle for farmers on Monday, using the new AADE (Independent Authority for Public Revenue) system that replaces the old OPKEPE framework. The programme aims to improve transparency and speed of disbursements, with continuous checks to ensure funds reach genuine beneficiaries.

Alongside the bulk payments, a de minimis €20 million subsidy will be paid to rice producers as compensation for recent losses. The minister, Margaritis Schoinas, also announced a €5.33 per‑kilogram compensation for fishermen catching invasive harefish and noted that the upcoming national elections are expected in the spring.