Chr. Staikouras: The big picture of the Greek economy is better than in the past

Better than in the past today is the “big picture” of the Greek economy, as last year the 2020 contraction was covered, as noted by the Minister of Finance Christos Staikouras, during his speech at the meeting of the Board of the Thessaloniki Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI).

For 2022, the minister spoke of continuing to support the disposable income of citizens, while referring to the payment of lower taxes and insurance contributions and the increase of the minimum wage in May.

Regarding the coverage of energy costs, Mr. Staikouras announced that the intention of the government is to continue more targeted in February, with emphasis on the most energy-intensive companies, according to a relevant announcement by the CCB.

Regarding the revenues from tourism, the minister expressed the estimate that they will reach 80% of those of the pre-university 2019 this year.

Mr. Staikouras also pointed out that the government has generously supported businesses and households and added that business turnover is gradually returning to 2019 levels, although there are still sectors that are lagging behind. He stressed that the government’s strategy lies, among other things, in reforms to create fiscal space and attract investment, while he mentioned the creation of new jobs through OAED programs and through the state budget.

Regarding the Refundable Advance Payment, she said that regarding her return from business, nothing changes from what is already known and based on current data.

The Minister of Finance was prefaced by the President of the CCI Giannis Masoutis, who thanked him for his online presence at the meeting of the Board of Directors of the Chamber. Mr. Staikouras answered many questions posed to him by members of the board of directors of the CCC.