OPEKEPE Responds to Reports of Millions Lost Due to Fraud and Abuse

The OPEKEPE (Payment Authority for Agricultural Policy) has found itself at the center of attention due to reports alleging millions of euros lost annually through fraud and misuse. These publications claim that tens of millions of euros are lost each year, but according to sources within OPEKEPE, the data they possess presents a different picture. Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Kostas Tsiaras has issued clear instructions for systematic checks to be carried out. An upcoming bill will address issues with livestock maps. The most recent cases forwarded to judicial authorities involve three instances with a total of 15 subsidy applicants. Most either never received funds or returned the subsidies they had received. The actual amount under investigation does not exceed €400,000, far from the reported figures of €45 million or €170 million. Sources emphasize that presenting isolated incidents as generalized phenomena is unfair. The process is strictly controlled, and any irregularities identified are dealt with immediately. Despite this, challenges persist due to incomplete land registry and forest maps, creating gray areas where individuals may exploit system weaknesses. In 2022, extensive checks were conducted on applicants claiming grazing rights without livestock, resulting in the blocking of 16,000 tax identification numbers (AFM), with 10,500 originating from Crete’s agricultural sector. A detailed review revealed only 7,786 unique AFMs, with 1,497 currently under judicial review. Cooperation with European Prosecutor’s Office continues, emphasizing the importance of patience until investigations conclude. Current leadership aims to strengthen control mechanisms and ensure transparency in agricultural subsidies.