Despite progress against tax evasion, Greece continues to lag Europe in VAT revenues, as multiple exemptions and reduced rates shrink the tax base and limit collections, according to IOBE and new research from the Tax Foundation

Greece finds itself caught between two truths. It collects tax revenues of about 40% of GDP but suffers from chronic evasion.

For consumers, that could mean the price of a standard 20-pack in Greece — now around 4.60 euros — could surge to 7 euros or more, unless tobacco companies absorb part of the tax increase.

France is Europe’s more-or-less unenviable “tax champion” at 45.6%, followed in close order by Belgium (44.8%), Denmark (44.7%), and Austria (43.5%)

A recent EU inquiry uncovered 358 online influencers, among them 20 in Greece, found to be violating consumer laws.