Laws, Regulations & Policy

Greek Tourism Minister Elena Kountoura presented Greece’s tourism policy to over 150 European leaders in tourism, during the WTTC’s first Europe Leaders Forum in Lisbon, Portugal.

A bill that includes the provisions for the establishment and operation of waterways in Greece was tabled in parliament by the Greek Transport Ministry.

The Greek Confederation of Tourist Accommodation Enterprises (SETKE) has slammed the ​​short-term rental hospitality concept.

The collective labor agreement for workers of travel and tourism agencies in Greece has been extended.

The electronic registry for property owners leasing their homes for short-term accommodation via online sharing platforms, is now operational on www.aade.gr.

Airbnb and Homeaway have taken legal action against New York City, claiming a recently passed law requiring user data, violates the US Constitution.

Following the sale of the Thessaloniki Port Authority, Greece’s assets body is aiming to launch the third privatization phase of 10 ports across the country in fall.

Ways of strengthening the link between tourism and retail were recently discussed during a meeting between Tourism Minister Elena Kountoura and ESEE President Vasilis Korkidis.

Greeks and foreigners using credit or debit cards issued abroad to withdraw cash from most Greek bank ATM machines, will be charged an extra 2-3 euros.

The economy ministry is set to announce the allocation of 120 million euros for the funding of tourism ventures and plans to double subsidies.

Greece’s Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras on Tuesday announced a cabinet reshuffle, keeping key members of the government in place while adding 13 new faces.

Enterprises, based on the Greek islands that are eligible to receive the “transport equivalent” discount for the transportation of goods, can now register online at www.etaforikoisodynamo.gr.

Greek commerce body ESEE is calling for the support of the tourism ministry in order to strengthen the link between tourism and retail with joint initiatives.

The UK government has published an updated guide with advice on issues that may arise in case no agreement with the EU is achieved after Britain exits the European Union.

Tourism Minister Elena Kountoura is setting the tourist development of the Alimos and Chios marinas into motion after announcing the issue of the relevant presidential decrees.

Mykonos Mayor Konstantinos Koukas has pressed charges against former alternate public order minister Nikos Toscas and the head of Greek Police for failing to ensure order on the island.

Greek Transport Minister Christos Spirtzis said three major projects, namely the Kastelli Airport on Crete, Hellinikon and the waterway venture, were proceeding to the next phase of development.

Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras described August 20, as a day of liberation for Greece, as the country completed its nearly eight-year rescue period.

August 20 marks Greece’s exit from a nearly eight-year-long aid program.

Wineries open for visitation across Greece will be awarded a special seal indicating that they abide by the standards for the operation of wine tourism enterprises.