Greece's government is set to introduce incentives aimed at reopening vacant homes to address the housing shortage, particularly for vulnerable social groups, according to Minister of National Economy and Finance Kostis Hatzidakis.
In an interview with Kathimerini, Mr. Hatzidakis confirmed the plans but did not specify whether these incentives would include tax benefits. He emphasized that increasing the supply of small and medium-sized apartments is a priority for the government.
Mr. Hatzidakis also discussed the regulation of short-term rentals, noting that the government is carefully evaluating the situation across different regions and will intervene with fairness to balance the needs of the rental market with the impact on local communities, especially in Athens.
He defended the government's record against criticism of delays in addressing societal issues, highlighting Greece's significant progress in recent years while acknowledging that further efforts are needed.
Additionally, Mr. Hatzidakis explained the government's decision to tax freelancers, describing it as part of a broader effort to create fairness between freelancers, salaried employees, and pensioners.
He pointed out that the increased tax revenue has been crucial in funding essential services like education and healthcare.
The minister also outlined upcoming changes in freelancer taxation, including the abolition of the business tax and the expansion of a tax discount for small villages.
On the issue of tax evasion, he highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the implementation of MyDATA, digital consignment notes, and comprehensive electronic invoicing, which have already resulted in a 9% increase in tax revenue without raising taxes.