G. Chatzitheodosiou requests the taking of extraordinary measures to support households and businesses

“The consequences of the precision and the war require extraordinary support measures,” the president of the Athens Chamber of Commerce, Giannis Chatzitheodosiou, said in a statement.

“The war in Ukraine creates new data on a global level and our country is fatally affected, mainly in terms of economy. Thus, while until a few days ago Greek energy consumers were trying to meet the increased costs of electricity, gas and “Fuel prices may soon face even higher prices as a result of the Ukrainian crisis.” Mr. Hatzitheodosiou adds: “These developments are coming to the worst possible point for the economy and entrepreneurship, as in recent years the blows have been continuous. wave of price increases that could turn into a tsunami due to the war my.

Already last month, inflation exceeded 6% and my estimate is that in the immediate future it will fluctuate to even higher levels, something that will be painful for both households and businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises. If one considers that a large number of small and medium-sized enterprises are unable to meet their obligations, we can safely conclude that the problem will worsen.

That is why immediate intervention by the government at two levels is imperative. Firstly in taking emergency measures to support households and businesses and secondly in putting pressure on the European authorities to decide and implement targeted policies that will help EU consumers withstand the pressure of price increases.

For the second we know that relevant discussions have already started and we hope that there will be positive developments as soon as possible. As for the first level of action, chamber presidents have submitted specific proposals to support businesses. Briefly mention the reduction of VAT on basic necessities to 6% as well as the reduction of the Excise Tax (VAT) on fuel. It should be noted that some European countries have already significantly reduced VAT, while in some cases it is even discussed to zero it for the duration of the current crisis. As a business community, we recognize the government’s efforts to reduce the effects of the surge in energy prices through subsidies, but it is now clear that these moves are not enough. Only part of the increases are covered. How will the balance be repaid with businesses having reduced turnover and low-income households? Only with courageous measures can the enormous economic damage suffered by businesses and households be reduced, but also social unrest avoided.

In the general anxiety of the days, however, there are some rays of optimism. During my visit to the United States, I came in contact with important members of the Greek Diaspora. “And their assessment is that an increase in the tourist flow is expected from the USA, something that, if confirmed, will significantly stimulate Greek tourism.”