Özgür Ferhat calls for support for fuel dealers and small businesses in border regions
Rodopi MP Özgür Ferhat has urged the government to take immediate action as the economic crisis deepens in border areas.
Rodopi MP Özgür Ferhat has submitted a parliamentary inquiry highlighting the severe challenges faced by fuel dealers and small businesses in Greece’s border regions. He emphasized that the economic situation in these areas is worsening, calling on the government to implement urgent measures.
The Impact of Bulgaria’s Schengen Accession
Since January 1, 2025, when Bulgaria joined the Schengen Area, land border controls have been lifted, exacerbating economic difficulties in Greek border regions. The significantly lower fuel prices in Bulgaria have driven local consumers to cross the border for cheaper fuel and other goods, severely impacting businesses in Greece.
Major Price Disparities with Bulgaria
Gasoline in Bulgaria is €0.50 per liter cheaper than in Greece.
LPG prices in Bulgaria are €350 per ton lower than in Greece.
These differences are pushing fuel stations and small businesses in Rodopi and other border areas to the brink of bankruptcy. Ferhat also noted that this situation is not only harming local entrepreneurs but also reducing state tax revenues.
Ferhat’s Key Demands
To address these challenges, Ferhat has called on the government to take immediate action and has raised the following questions in parliament:
- What support measures will be introduced for small and medium-sized businesses in border regions?
- Will the government consider reducing fuel taxes in these areas to compete with Bulgarian prices?
- Are there plans to temporarily lower VAT and Excise Duty (ÖTV) on fuel in border regions?
- Will there be investment incentives and economic development plans to revive the regional economy?
Ferhat: “We Must Protect Our Businesses!”
MP Özgür Ferhat stressed that local businesses are at their breaking point and need urgent government intervention:
"We must protect our businesses, fuel dealers, and local communities before it’s too late. This is not just about local economies—it’s a matter of fairness and economic justice. Our people should not be forced to rely on another country for essential goods. The government must act now.”
Ferhat’s initiative continues to amplify the voices of border communities and businesses. All eyes are now on how the government will respond to this urgent call.
