Hüseyin Zeybek calls for tax reform for shipyard workers employed abroad
Xanthi (İskeçe) MP Hüseyin Zeybek has called for changes to Greece’s tax system for Greek citizens working in shipyards and the shipbuilding and repair industry abroad, arguing that their working conditions and employment-related expenses should be taken into account when determining their tax liabilities.
Zeybek submitted a parliamentary question to the Minister of National Economy and Finance, raising concerns about the taxation of Greek citizens employed in shipyards in other European Union member states and third countries.
The MP highlighted the circumstances of skilled workers, including welders, pipefitters, metalworkers, painters and assembly specialists, who often face demanding working conditions while also carrying significant tax burdens.
CALL FOR TAX TREATMENT COMPARABLE TO SEAFARERS
In his parliamentary question, Zeybek pointed to the special tax regime applied to merchant navy seafarers in Greece. Under the arrangements cited in his proposal, seafarers’ income is taxed at rates of 10% or 15%, depending on their position and rank.
He called on the government to consider whether a comparable special tax regime could be introduced for shipyard workers employed abroad, taking into account the challenges associated with their work.
PROPOSAL TO DEDUCT OVERSEAS WORK EXPENSES
Zeybek also raised concerns about Greek tax residents working abroad who may face additional tax liabilities and administrative difficulties when claiming credits for taxes paid in other countries.
His proposal calls for necessary employment-related expenses incurred abroad to be deductible from taxable income, provided they are supported by appropriate documentation. These expenses could include rent, accommodation, transport and travel costs.
The MP highlighted the financial pressure on workers who maintain a family home in Greece while also paying for accommodation in the country where they work.
FIVE QUESTIONS SUBMITTED TO THE MINISTER
Zeybek’s parliamentary intervention raises five key issues: the introduction of reduced tax rates for shipyard workers, measures to ease the tax burden on those employed in EU countries, the offsetting of taxes paid in third countries, and tax deductions for necessary overseas employment expenses.
The MP framed his proposals around the principles of tax equality and taxation according to ability to pay, calling for a system that better reflects the financial circumstances of Greek citizens working abroad.
The government’s response to the parliamentary questions was not included in the supplied report.
