Greece Extends Rent Cuts, Exemptions for Covid-hit Enterprises, Workers

Photo source: Region of Attica

Pandemic-impacted business owners in Greece active in tourism, F&B, culture, sports & gyms, and transport will be exempt from paying rent for June after the government extended Covid-19 aid.

The measure applies to businesses affected by lockdown restrictions.

According to a finance ministry announcement, a 40-percent reduction in rent applies to retail shop owners, employees who are on furlough in June (only for main residence), and student housing.

The government has repeatedly extended the measure to support employees whose contracts have been suspended or Covid-hit business operations.

According to media reports, discounted rents or rent exemptions will not continue in July with the exception of businesses forced to remain closed in that month.

Additionally, the newly-announced round of relief gives enterprises forced to remain closed in June on government order additional time to make regulated tax and insurance debt payments scheduled for June.

Deputy Development Minister Nikos Papathanasis said the government was supporting employees and businesses in order to achieve a smooth return to normalcy.

Speaking on Parapolitika radio, he said companies were being encouraged to make new investments after reductions in corporate tax, solidarity levies, and employer contributions.