Praise from Germany continues following Prime Minister Mitsotakis’ return from Berlin. Not only did the prime minister receive positive feedback, but German economists also highlighted that Greeks work 135 more hours annually compared to Germans. The Institute for the German Economy (IW) noted a significant rise in working hours in Greece since 2013, contrasting with minimal increases in Germany. Despite this praise, implementing similar measures in Germany could negatively impact their income structure.
Meanwhile, delays in Greece’s Recovery Fund planning are noted, especially concerning the attractiveness and communication of actions to the public. A gap persists between the objective value of Greek real estate at €777.8 billion and its market value exceeding €1 trillion. Government policies remain frozen on property assessments despite rising market prices.
The energy sector faces challenges too, with one-third of electricity consumers now owing money, totaling €3.4 billion in overdue payments. Measures against electricity theft have been implemented, but their effectiveness remains unclear. Legal actions by suppliers for debt collection have become less viable due to increased court fees.
In Strasbourg, legal battles over NOK bonuses continue as a Greek contractor appeals to the European Court of Human Rights regarding permit cancellations. Meanwhile, Ivan Savvidis’ attempt to develop land in Paliori has stalled, highlighting issues with state-owned properties handed over without promised investments.
This week, the Superfund is set to take over €1.3 billion in railway projects from OSE and ERGOSE, aiming to address long-standing delays. Furthermore, multiple private firms will undertake the mapping of debts in insurance funds amounting to €49.2 billion owed by over 2.1 million employers and self-employed individuals.
Efforts to enhance compliance with contributions aim to increase revenue sustainably, creating fiscal space akin to anti-tax evasion measures.