Government Sets Out 2026 Roadmap at EBETH Anniversary Event
Greek Deputy Prime Minister Kostis Hatzidakis presented 11 central government commitments for 2026 during the celebration marking 110 years of the Thessaloniki Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The agenda includes new tax and social security contribution cuts that will be detailed by the Prime Minister in September at the Thessaloniki International Fair.
The completion of the national cadastre features prominently in the plan, alongside what Hatzidakis described as the largest Public Investment Programme in recent years valued at 16 billion euros.
Legislative efforts to simplify the business landscape are also underway, with a bill expected to be submitted to parliament shortly. The MITOS project, targeting the simplification of 4,050 administrative procedures through tools such as artificial intelligence, forms another pillar of the strategy.
Investment Framework and Justice System Acceleration
A new multiannual fiscal framework worth 49 billion euros for 2028 to 2034 is being prepared, excluding RRF type loans and the planned European Competitiveness Fund. Efforts to speed up judicial processes continue, with the aim of reducing the average resolution time for court cases to 650 days by 2027, aligning Greece with the EU average.
Enhanced support for SMEs through the Development Bank is part of the commitments, accompanied by an initiative to strengthen exports via an upgraded Enterprise Greece agency where exporters will have a more direct role in decision making.
Major Infrastructure Projects Move Forward
Infrastructure remains a core element of the governments priorities, with Hatzidakis referencing the Attica Crete electrical interconnection and the E 65 motorway as key national projects. Additional works advancing in Northern Greece and Thessaloniki include the metro extension to Kalamaria, the flyover scheduled for completion in the first half of 2027, the expansion of the ports 6th pier and its rail link, and upgrades to local institutions such as the childrens hospital, Theageneio hospital, cultural venues, museums and the ThessINTEC 4th generation technology park.
The long awaited redevelopment of the Thessaloniki International Fair grounds is also progressing, adding to the broader transformation of the region. Hatzidakis emphasised that the government aims to deliver measurable results for Thessaloniki, ensuring that citizens sacrifices are respected and that the country continues to advance.
Messages from Government and Local Leaders
Deputy Interior Minister for Macedonia and Thrace Kostas Gioulekas conveyed wishes for continued progress at EBETH, highlighting the value of collaboration throughout its history.
EBETH president Giannis Masoutis reflected on the chambers enduring contribution to Thessalonikis economy and society since 1916, noting its support for businesses during the financial crisis and its role in modernising the citys infrastructure.
Honouring Dimitris Bakatselos
Former EBETH president Dimitris Bakatselos was named honorary president after serving two decades from 1997 to 2017. Masoutis praised Bakatselos for his longstanding dedication and vision, recalling his own experience working with him and the leadership qualities he demonstrated.
Bakatselos underscored what he sees as Thessalonikis five development pillars: the port, the exhibition centre, the airport, the metro system and the citys technological evolution through ThessINTEC. He also noted that the redevelopment of the exhibition centre would have been further along had a proposed plan from 20 years ago been adopted.
Additional Greetings Mark the Occasion
Metropolitan Philotheos of Thessaloniki, Regional Governor Athina Aidona and Mayor Stelios Aggeloudis each offered greetings, marking the significance of the chambers 110 year milestone and its ongoing role in the economic fabric of the region.
