Greece introduces new AADE-controlled mechanism for monitoring agricultural subsidies
Greece is introducing a fundamental overhaul of the system governing agricultural subsidies, with the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) assuming full control in an effort to eliminate weak oversight practices that previously allowed fraudulent applications and payments.
Under the new framework, agricultural subsidies will be subject to tax-style audits, covering the entire process from declarations and documentation to on-site field inspections and payments. The reform introduces permanent control structures, continuous monitoring, and the systematic activation of complaint-based investigations.
The absorption of OPEKEPE into AADE is accompanied by a series of institutional and operational changes. A newly established Internal Audit Department for Agricultural Controls, Subsidies, and Payments will be responsible for designing multiannual and annual audit programs, setting timetables, and monitoring their implementation. For the first time, permanent internal audits will apply not only to beneficiaries but also to the procedures and services responsible for managing subsidy payments.
The department will evaluate governance systems and internal control mechanisms, verify compliance with accreditation criteria, and propose amendments to regulatory frameworks and audit manuals. It will produce interim and final audit reports, monitor the implementation of recommendations by competent units, and conduct extraordinary audits in cases of elevated risk or irregularities. Continuous training of auditors in legislation, best practices, and international auditing standards is also предусмотр.
A major reform is the activation of a Special Planning and Coordination Unit for Non-OSDE Controls, dedicated exclusively to handling complaints and conducting physical on-site inspections. This unit will develop inspection programs by subsidy sector, select samples using random methods and risk analysis, and organize field checks. Findings will be centrally assessed to update guidelines and tighten control procedures on an annual basis.
All audit data will be consolidated within AADE’s information systems, while the new unit will coordinate with national and European audit authorities, manage complaints, respond to European Union observations and reports, and monitor inspections carried out by external bodies.
The new control structures are being implemented gradually as OPEKEPE’s responsibilities are integrated into AADE, marking the start of continuous and recurring audits across beneficiaries, procedures, and services throughout the entire agricultural subsidy lifecycle.
