The Minister of National Economy and Finance Kyriakos Pierrakakis, in an exclusive statement to ANA-MPA, spoke about developments in the Greek economy this year. “2026 will be a year of opportunities for Greece, with growth, investment and citizens at the centre,” he noted. Pierrakakis also emphasised that “the success of the economy is judged by the improvement in the lives of citizens”, as tax reform begins to be implemented today. He further pointed out that Greece is moving forward with a “compass” focused on more productive investments with high added value, new and better jobs, the utilisation of major development tools and public property across the country, as well as policies that strengthen social cohesion and reduce inequalities.

The full statement by the Minister of National Economy and Finance Kyriakos Pierrakakis, to the Athens-Macedonian News Agency is as follows:

“Greece will start 2026 with a mature, outward-looking, and dynamic economy. It will be a country with real opportunities ahead of it and, now, the ability to turn them into lasting progress. The data clearly reflect this transition. Growth is projected at 2.4% in 2026; investment is increasing at a rate of 10.2% – four times the European average – while unemployment is falling to 8.6%, its lowest level since 2008. Inflation is easing to 2.2%, and pressure on households is diminishing. The primary surplus remains strong at 2.8%, demonstrating that growth can coexist with fiscal stability. However, all this has value only on one condition: that citizens feel it in their daily lives – in their salaries, in their jobs and in their children’s prospects. Improvements in the lives of citizens determine the success of the economy. That is why tax reform is not merely an announcement; it is being implemented starting today. This reform is already beginning to be reflected in family incomes and forms the basis for a stable path towards a fairer distribution of the tax burden. We will continue on the same path in 2026, with development policies that consistently support society and strengthen confidence in the economy. Our compass is steady: more productive investments with high added value, new and better jobs, the utilisation of major development tools and public property throughout the country, and policies that strengthen social cohesion and reduce inequalities. 2026 is a year of opportunities. We are moving forward with consistency and stability, with a clear focus on the country’s future.

Happy New Year to everyone.”