Greece has unveiled a broad package of new policy measures, including the second phase of a nationwide school renovation program, new tourism subsidies, a consumer price comparison app, and reforms aimed at strengthening financial protection for borrowers.
The announcements were made by government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis during a press briefing, as the Greek Prime Minister attended the European Council summit in Brussels and participated in high-level discussions on EU economic governance and international affairs.
Second phase of school renovation program
A central element of the briefing was the continuation of the school infrastructure upgrade program “Marietta Giannakou”, which now moves into its second phase.
The program will cover 238 school units across 132 municipalities in Greece. It aims to modernize school buildings and improve conditions for students and staff, continuing a broader effort to upgrade public education infrastructure nationwide.
Tourism for All 2026–2027 expands support
The government also announced the new “Tourism for All 2026–2027” scheme, which provides financial subsidies to support domestic tourism and strengthen local economies.
The program offers grants ranging from €200 to €600, depending on eligibility criteria. It also introduces expanded access for beneficiaries, with special provisions for people with disabilities and large families.
Officials said the scheme is designed not only to support household travel budgets but also to stimulate tourism activity in both popular destinations and less-developed or remote regions across the country.
New consumer tool: price comparison app
Another major initiative is the introduction of a new digital application called “PosoKanei” (“How Much Does It Cost”), which allows consumers to compare prices of approximately 10,000 supermarket products.
The platform is intended to increase market transparency and empower consumers to make more informed purchasing decisions, while also encouraging competition among retailers.
The government described the app as part of a wider effort to address cost-of-living pressures and improve consumer awareness in the retail sector.
Consumer protection reforms and loan regulations
Marinakis also presented key provisions of a new bill from the Ministry of Development focused on consumer protection and financial transparency.
The legislation introduces stricter rules on consumer loans, including enhanced disclosure requirements, stronger rights for borrowers, and limits on fees and interest rates.
A significant measure is the introduction of a cap on the annual percentage rate (APR), which will not be allowed to exceed a defined threshold linked to central bank reference rates, as published quarterly by the Bank of Greece.
The bill also includes limits on increases to the original loan principal during repayment, aiming to prevent excessive cost escalation over time.
Officials said the reforms are designed to create a more transparent, safer, and fairer lending environment for consumers.
Greece’s position on EU priorities
During the briefing, Marinakis also outlined Greece’s positions on key issues discussed at the European Council.
These include the EU’s long-term budget framework for 2028–2034, global macroeconomic stability, ongoing developments in Ukraine and the Middle East, and European defense and security policy.
Greece reiterated its view that the EU’s strategic ambitions must be matched by an appropriately sized and adequately funded European budget.
The country also stressed the importance of maintaining funding for cohesion policy and the Common Agricultural Policy, warning that efforts to boost competitiveness should not widen disparities between member states or regions.
On defense, Greece supports a comprehensive European security approach that addresses threats across the entire continent, described as a “360-degree” strategy.
Energy security and Middle East developments
Regarding the Middle East, Greece reaffirmed its position in favor of de-escalation and diplomatic solutions. The government welcomed recent developments and highlighted the importance of restoring freedom of navigation in key maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz.
Greece also participates in a Franco-British initiative related to maritime security in the region, according to the briefing.
