«When measures are announced that restrict the ability of businesses to operate, there should also be corresponding support measures.».
This was stated in a statement on the new measures by Yannis Hatzitheodosiou, president of the Central Union of Chambers and the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Specifically, the president stated:
Protecting public health is the duty of every civilized state, and we agree with every measure taken in this direction. Moreover, chambers of commerce and businesses have demonstrated in practice that the health of citizens is our top priority, and we have supported vaccinations with all our might.
However, we must not forget that when measures are announced that restrict the ability of businesses to operate, there must also be corresponding support measures. Therefore, since the public interest dictates new restrictions in an effort to curb the Omicron variant, it is the state's obligation to stand by those affected by the implementation of these measures. This is especially true for sectors that have been severely affected by the economic consequences of the pandemic, such as the restaurant industry, which is once again being impacted by the government's strategy.
Even before the measures were announced, about half of the companies in the sector saw their future as bleak, as shown by the findings of a relevant survey. It is therefore clear how much more difficult the situation will become with the new measures. For the catering industry, which continues to be in the «eye of the storm,» the chamber of commerce community considers it necessary to abolish the refund of the Refundable Advance Payment, postpone the obligations of businesses in the sector, strengthen their liquidity through financial instruments, and reduce VAT.
The struggle faced by businesses and professionals affected by the consequences of the pandemic is taking place under extremely adverse conditions and with operating costs that have skyrocketed due to the wave of price increases. Further deterioration is expected in this area, as we estimate that inflation will rise even further, affecting the overall functioning of the market.
In order to avoid total destruction for businesses in sectors that continue to be affected, it is necessary to support them here and now. There is no time to waste, nor any further resilience.
