Greek SMEs criticize government economic measures

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Greece have expressed significant disappointment regarding the government's recent economic measures announced during the Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF). Business leaders have characterized the measures as insufficient to address the current needs of the sector.

Giannis Chatzitheodosiou, President of the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry, described the situation as a “disappointment of expectations,” noting that while many measures were promised, very few were actually implemented. Similarly, Giannis Bratakos, President of the Athens Chamber of Industry, criticized the plan to gradually phase out tax advances over an eight-year period, calling it “insufficient and unfair” given the current state of Greek businesses.

The most severe criticism came from Giorgos Kavvathas, President of the General Confederation of Hellenic Traders, Craftsmen and Merchants (GSSEBEE), who stated that the government “acts as if it does not understand the problem.” While acknowledging that the package contains some positive measures for the broader Greek economy, he emphasized that the specific needs of SMEs remain largely unaddressed.