Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis pledged continued support for farmers while drawing firm red lines against illegal protests and coercive tactics, following a meeting with agricultural representatives at the prime minister’s office in Athens.

Speaking after the talks, Mitsotakis described the meeting as “substantive and sincere,” saying it opened a new path for Greece’s primary production sector. He said the government reviewed measures already in place, accepted new proposals, and began outlining a more productive long-term agricultural policy.

Among the key announcements was an expansion of eligibility for reduced electricity rates for farmers. Mitsotakis said Greek farmers will benefit from the lowest electricity prices in Europe, adding that those who are on payment arrangements and remain consistent for one year will also be included in the discounted tariff scheme.

The prime minister also announced further tax relief, saying farmers will no longer pay a special excise tax on diesel fuel and will now also be exempt from value-added tax linked to that discount. He emphasized that these measures aim to ease mounting cost pressures on agricultural producers.

Mitsotakis pointed to reforms at the national agency responsible for agricultural subsidies, noting that all payments for this year have been completed and exceeded last year’s levels. He said a fairer distribution of funds has freed up additional resources that will now support low-priced crops and livestock farmers affected by a recent animal disease outbreak.

Faster compensation was another key focus. The prime minister said payouts from the country’s agricultural insurance system are being accelerated, with special provisions planned for income losses in the production of plant-based animal feed linked to the disease’s impact.

At the same time, Mitsotakis struck a firm tone on ongoing protests. He said the government has shown significant tolerance toward farmer demonstrations, recognizing the seriousness of their problems and responding to many of their demands through dialogue.

However, he warned that a small, politically motivated minority continues to maintain roadblocks, which he described as openly pressuring society. After 45 days of disruption, he said, the situation cannot continue.

“The government has stretched both the economy’s capacity and its understanding,” Mitsotakis said, stressing that there will be zero tolerance for blackmail, illegal actions, or what he called unreasonable behavior. He added that the government will not allow the rest of society to be unfairly burdened.

Concluding his remarks, the prime minister said the government remains committed to honest dialogue with those willing to participate, while making clear that it will keep its doors closed to misinformation, populism, and threats.