Thassos hoteliers demand VAT reduction
The Thassos Hoteliers’ Association, through its Board of Directors and President Mr. Margaritis Babatzikos, has expressed strong concern and opposition to the exclusion of Thassos from the reduced VAT regime for Greek islands.
According to the association, Thassos fully meets all objective criteria:
Population: With 13,104 residents (ELSTAT 2021), the island falls well below the 20,000 threshold.
Transport & Isolation: Thassos has no airport and only limited ferry connections, leading to high transport costs and accessibility challenges. The nearest airport in Kavala offers a restricted number of flights compared to other islands.
Tourism: Tourism is the island’s main economic driver, with hotels forming the backbone of the local economy. A VAT reduction would strengthen competitiveness, extend the tourist season, and attract visitors from new markets.
Cost of Living: Residents and businesses face significantly higher prices—25–50% more for fuel and basic goods. A lower VAT rate would provide essential relief and promote local development.
Equal Treatment: Other islands with similar characteristics benefit from the measure. Thassos, the association argues, cannot remain an exception.
Conclusion: Including Thassos in the reduced VAT regime is not only a matter of fairness and equality, but also a necessary condition for the sustainability of the island’s hotel and tourism sector.
The Association Demands:
- Immediate review of the decision.
- Inclusion of Thassos in the reduced VAT regime.
- Equal terms and fair treatment for all Greek islands.
The Thassos Hoteliers’ Association reaffirmed its willingness to engage in dialogue with the government to ensure a fair solution in the interests of residents, visitors, and the country’s national tourism strategy.
