Tsipras to unveil economic program in Thessaloniki on September 2
ELAS Party leader and former Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras is set to unveil his party’s economic program in Selanik on September 2, outlining proposals on taxation, wages, the middle class, the cost of living, housing and the restructuring of Greece’s productive economy.
The presentation will take place at the Porto Palace, one week before Tsipras’ official appearance at the Thessaloniki International Fair (DETH) on September 9.
The economic program is built around a four-year plan for economic and productive restructuring, with the party seeking to ensure that its proposals are fully costed and financially feasible within the framework of the public budget.
Tax reform and the middle class
Tax policy is expected to be one of the central pillars of Tsipras’ economic agenda. The ELAS leader is expected to propose measures aimed at reducing the tax burden on employees while limiting additional financial pressures on the middle class.
At the same time, the program is expected to include measures targeting higher-income and wealthier groups through changes to taxation.
The economic position of employees and the middle class will receive particular attention, as rising food, energy, rent and other essential costs continue to put pressure on household disposable incomes.
Cost of living and housing
The cost-of-living crisis and housing affordability are also expected to feature prominently in the program.
Tsipras is expected to present policies addressing the housing difficulties faced particularly by young people and families. The proposals could include tax incentives as well as a broader public housing strategy.
The extent to which the program will introduce a more comprehensive state-led housing policy is expected to be closely watched.
“Fair development” and productive restructuring
Three broad themes are expected to shape Tsipras’ economic proposals: “fair development,” “productive restructuring” and the “social state.”
Under the productive restructuring agenda, ELAS is expected to prioritize domestic production, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and the strengthening of regional economies.
The social state component is expected to place particular emphasis on healthcare and education, positioning public services as key areas of government responsibility.
Alternative to Mitsotakis’ economic agenda
Tsipras will present the program shortly before Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis delivers his own economic and political agenda at the Thessaloniki International Fair.
By unveiling its proposals ahead of the government’s DETH presentation, ELAS aims to establish its economic program as an alternative to the government’s economic policies, setting the stage for a direct political debate over taxation, living costs, housing and Greece’s future economic model.
