Greek households are feeling the strain as meat prices climb to unprecedented levels, with beef leading the surge. A combination of reduced livestock numbers due to EU “green transition” measures, rising production costs, and Greece’s heavy reliance on imports has created a perfect storm of inflation. Consumers now face monthly price hikes they struggle to keep up with.
According to the Central Market’s price bulletin, imported boneless beef brisket jumped from 7.98 euros per kilo last year to 11.98 euros this year—a 50% increase. Imported beef liver saw a similar spike, while certain specialty products, like frozen lamb intestines, rose by more than 70%. Only imported pork showed slight decreases.
Imports Deepen the Challenge
Greece covers 80% of its beef needs through imports, mainly from France, Germany, and the Netherlands. While Greeks consume around 160,000 tons of beef annually, domestic production covers only 40,000 tons. In 2024, meat imports reached 1.8 billion euros—up 7% from the previous year—largely due to higher prices rather than larger quantities. Since 2021, the value of imports has soared by 56%.
European Policies and Global Demand
Market experts stress that beef price hikes are not just a Greek issue. Across Europe, the push to cut agricultural greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030 means livestock numbers are falling. Yet global demand remains high, driving prices further upward. The president of Greece’s National Meat Interprofessional Organization even warned that beef could soon surpass 20 euros per kilo.
Additional Pressures
Beyond EU policy, Greek farmers face rising energy costs that make production more expensive. Meanwhile, outbreaks of animal diseases such as sheep pox have decimated herds, with over 200,000 animals culled since last year. The livestock population in Greece fell across most categories in 2023, including a 4.1% drop in cattle.
Producers and butchers alike express deep concern about the months ahead, warning that unless measures are taken, affordability and availability of meat in Greece will continue to deteriorate.
