Greek Deputy Prime Minister Costas Hatzidakis announced in Thessaloniki—during the General Assembly of the Hellenic Exporters’ Association—that the government has set a target of €70 billion in goods exports by 2030. Speaking at the event, Hatzidakis highlighted that Greek goods exports have risen by 46% since 2019—from €32 billion to €47 billion today. He noted that compared to pre-crisis levels, exports have more than doubled both in absolute value and as a share of GDP.
The Five-Year Export Strategy
Under its Five-Year External Orientation Plan, the government aims to boost goods exports by another 45%, reaching the €70 billion mark by 2030. To achieve this, Hatzidakis outlined a series of targeted actions designed to strengthen the international reach of Greek businesses.
These include upgrading Enterprise Greece and Export Credit Greece to deliver more integrated support to exporters; reinforcing Greece’s Economic and Commercial Offices abroad; accelerating digitalisation of export-related services; and launching a more focused international promotion of the Greek national brand.
New Markets and Diversification
Hatzidakis cited India as a major growth market and a key national priority. He credited the export surge to Greek companies’ proactive efforts—seeking new markets, investing in quality, and moving beyond an inward-looking production model. At the same time, he stressed that the state has played a vital role by fostering a supportive environment: restoring confidence in the economy, implementing structural reforms, advancing economic diplomacy, cutting red tape at customs, and offering tailored support—especially to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
The Deputy PM also pointed to a notable shift in export composition. High-tech product exports grew by 70%—outpacing the overall average. Alongside traditional sectors like food, Greece is building a more diversified export base—including electronics, scientific instruments, pharmaceuticals, computers, and chemicals.
Thessaloniki and Northern Greece as an Export Hub
Hatzidakis described Northern Greece—and Thessaloniki in particular—as one of the country’s most dynamic export regions and a natural gateway to the Balkans and Southeastern Europe. He referenced several infrastructure initiatives supporting this role: the expansion of Thessaloniki Port’s 6th Quay, ongoing railway connectivity upgrades, road and rail projects, the redevelopment of the Thessaloniki International Fair (DETH), and private investment inflows.