The platform to file the annual tax returns will open on Taxis by Thursday at the latest, Greek Finance Minister Christos Staikouras told the OT Forum on Wednesday.
Mr. Staikouras also said that the property taxes this year will be 1 billion euros lower for taxpayers overall compared to what they paid in 2018.
In addition, he noted that the supplementary state budget that will raise expenditures by 2 billion euros will be filed next week. This amount will be used by the cash resources, currently totaling nearly 40 billion euros, and will prevent the budget deficit spreading by 2 billion euros.
The FinMin did not rule out lowering the VAT on certain foods, but said that this would depend on several parameters: fiscal space, developments in the Greek economy (especially since Greece needs to file with the European Commission the Stability and Development Program with updated assessments on the Greek economy for 2022 and 2023 by the end of April), and actual benefit to the public.
Greece can withstand not accessing the markets again in 2022, Staikouras noted, although it would be best to retain a continuing contact with them. Greece’s initial target was to tap 12 billion euros within the year; it has already tapped 3 billion euros.
The government’s priority is to introduce more VAT reductions in the food sector, transportation and tourism by the ned of the year, at a total cost of 250 million euros, while abolishing the solidarity tax for everyone in 2023, as well as reduce rates in insurance contributions, he said.
Latest News
Critical Week for Greece-Cyprus Cable
The study concluded that the social benefits of the interconnection, totaling 8 billion euros, far outweigh its 1.9 billion euros construction cost, resulting in a net social benefit exceeding 6 billion euros.
Roberta Metsola Re-elected President of European Parliament
Her second term will be for a period of two and a half years
ELSTAT: 1.5% Increase in Business Turnover in May 2024
The most significant increase in turnover in May 2024 compared with May 2023 was recorded from the enterprises of the Accommodation and Food Service Activities, sector which grew by 14.8%.
Cosco: Container Traffic Decline at Piraeus Port Continues
This strategic shift has diminished Piraeus's standing as a prominent Mediterranean port and a key transshipment hub post-Suez Canal.
Gov’t Eyes Return of Power Subsidies Amid Spike in Rates
According to reports, the government will resume an electricity subsidization program, given that forecasts cite disruptions – i.e. higher rates
ELSTAT: 6.3% Increase in Output Price Index for Agriculture and Livestock
The 6.3% rise in May 2024 is largely driven by an 8.8% increase in the crop output group, particularly due to changes in olive oil prices, and a 0.5% increase in the animal output group.
Balkans Blackout Highlights Climate Threats to Power Grids
The surge in electricity demand during the heat wave and the power deficit in Balkan markets have driven up prices in the Greek wholesale electricity market.
Greece in Top 4 Destinations Favored by European Tourists
Greece was selected by 5.9% of respondents who were asked where they would vacation this year, up from 5.4% in the same survey last year
Scope Affirms Greece’s BBB- Ratings; Revises Outlook to Positive
The international ratings firm raised Greece to investment grade in early August 2023
First Seaplane Test Flights to Skopelos, Alonissos, Skyros
After decades of on-again, off-again efforts to schedule regular seaplane routes to Greece's numerous island and coastal destinations the prospect now appears within sight