Greek exporters are closely watching developments in Washington as efforts intensify to secure exemptions for Greek products from US tariffs on European Union goods.
The president of the Greek Exporters Association (SEVE), Symeon Diamantidis, has been working for months to gain direct access to Donald Trump’s circle, hoping to convince the former US president to repeat a decision from his first term: exempting Greek exports from tariffs currently set at 15% on EU products.
Lobbying through key connections
Diamantidis says his access to Trump’s network is supported by Greek-American businessman John Catsimatidis, Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, and Kimberly Guilfoyle, who is expected to soon take up her post as US ambassador in Athens.
Although Greek government officials are kept informed, they have not directly participated in lobbying efforts due to their institutional roles. Diamantidis has already submitted product codes requiring exemptions and says he has received assurances they will be forwarded to Trump for consideration.
The process has been delayed, he explained, because of Trump’s involvement in efforts to mediate the conflict in Ukraine. However, Diamantidis remains “cautiously optimistic,” suggesting that an answer — positive or negative — may come during the Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF).
Exports holding steady in 2025
Beyond tariffs, Greece’s export performance to the US has been encouraging. Excluding petroleum products, Greek exports rose 5.5% in value during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year. Diamantidis expects the overall value of non-petroleum exports to either see a modest increase or at least remain at 2024 levels by year’s end.
The outcome of ongoing talks with Trump could prove critical in ensuring Greek goods remain competitive in the American market.
