The Hellenic Competition Commission (HCC) has launched a sector-wide investigation into the Greek coastal shipping industry following numerous complaints regarding potential unfair market practices and cartel-like behavior. The inquiry aims to determine whether structural issues have emerged in the industry since its deregulation in 2001.
According to a report broadcast by MEGA TV, the investigation will explore all aspects of the market’s operation, focusing on the creation of an oligopoly and distortions resulting from the liberalization of ferry routes. The deregulation, initially intended to foster competition and improve service quality, may have instead allowed for monopolistic behavior and price manipulation.
One of the most pressing concerns prompting the investigation is the drastic increase in public service route subsidies. Since the liberalization of the sector, the number of subsidized routes has grown, but so has the financial burden on taxpayers. In 2001, subsidies for public ferry services amounted to €10 million. By 2024, that figure has skyrocketed to €152 million — a staggering increase of over 1,400%.
The Commission will also be examining specific complaints about anti-competitive conduct by major ferry operators allegedly targeting smaller competitors in the market. If evidence of such practices is found, the HCC has made it clear that significant penalties will be imposed.
