Özgür Ferhat raises concerns over mandatory digital customer registry in Parliament

Özgür Ferhat, Member of Parliament for Rhodope representing the New Left Party, has submitted a written question to the Greek Parliament, voicing concerns over the newly enforced “Digital Customer Registry System”, which became mandatory as of July 1, 2025.

Ferhat criticized the system for placing a disproportionate burden on small and family-run businesses, calling for urgent revisions to the implementation.

The regulation affects businesses in vehicle repair, maintenance, car washes, parking services, and car rentals. However, infrastructure deficiencies and operational challenges are making it increasingly difficult for small-scale businesses to comply, widening the inequality gap.

Key Issues Highlighted in the Parliamentary Question
In his inquiry to the Minister of Finance, MP Ferhat outlined several critical problems:

The system is incompatible with existing software, leading to redundancy and unnecessary bureaucracy.

Understaffed businesses are struggling to manage registration procedures.

Cost of new digital equipment and software imposes financial strain on small entrepreneurs.

Elderly business owners, lacking digital literacy, are being excluded.

Larger companies gain a competitive edge, pushing small businesses out of the market.

The system’s applicability in rural and remote areas remains unclear.

Ferhat's Demands to the Government
MP Ferhat called for the following actions:

Postponement of the enforcement date for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs),

Exemptions or special status for businesses operating in settlements with a population under 1,500,

Simplification and integration of the system’s interface with existing software,

Initiating a comprehensive dialogue with professional chambers and associations.

Message of Solidarity to Small Businesses
“Digitalization is undoubtedly necessary, but not in this way. A system that complicates rather than facilitates small business operations is not digital transformation—it is digital imposition. As the voice of small traders, we will continue to fight against this injustice in Parliament,” said Ferhat.