Zakynthos water price hike sparks business backlash

Tourist businesses on the Greek island of Zakynthos are protesting a near‑doubling of water fees imposed by the public utility DEYAZ. Chamber of Commerce president Niki Malafouri says the price increase exceeds 90 % and the supplied water is of poor quality, causing damage to plumbing and equipment. Local firms now pay over €200 instead of €100 per month and must also buy bottled water, doubling their costs.

The Chamber plans to send a formal memorandum to DEYAZ, the municipality and relevant ministries, urging the state to finance the utility’s infrastructure rather than passing the burden onto businesses. Officials argue that Zakynthos, a major tourism source generating over €250 million in taxes, cannot sustain such steep water charges without government support.