The Athens Commercial Association has raised concerns over what it describes as unfair competition in the clothing and footwear market, alleging that some second-hand retail stores are operating without complying with legal requirements.

According to the association, businesses selling second-hand goods are required under existing regulations to hold an operating license issued by the relevant municipality, comply with health and safety standards, provide proof of product cleaning and disinfection, and sell goods using the same unit of measurement under which they were originally purchased.

In a statement shared on social media, the association’s president, Thanos Tsaggaris, argued that these obligations are not being consistently observed in many cases. He said the issue has become increasingly widespread over the past five years and claimed that some second-hand retailers benefit from operating without the same regulatory and financial burdens faced by legally compliant businesses.

The association warns that this situation is creating unequal conditions in the market and placing additional pressure on small and medium-sized clothing and footwear retailers.

Tsaggaris said the issue has been raised twice with the Municipality of Athens, but according to the association, sufficient inspections have not followed. He also stated that the Interagency Market Control Unit (DIMEA) considered itself not responsible for the matter, while regional authorities referred responsibility back to the municipality.

To address the issue, the Athens Commercial Association has proposed the creation of a joint inspection task force involving municipal police, market control authorities, the national police, health services and regional authorities. The aim would be to strengthen oversight and ensure compliance with existing legislation.

The association says it will continue pressing the issue and is calling on the relevant authorities to take action, arguing that stronger enforcement is necessary to protect small businesses and ensure the proper functioning of the market.