"Experience leads us to the decision to reform the market supervision and consumer protection system by creating a new independent Authority that will consolidate all responsibilities: mediation, inspection, and enforcement of penalties," said Development Minister Takis Theodorikakos in an interview with SKAI on Wednesday.
"We are merging services and clarifying responsibilities," the minister noted, adding: "We are creating a new independent Authority, free from political circles - similar to how the head of the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (IAPR) operates - which will have all the power and authority needed to do its job and protect consumer interests. I call on the political parties to support this reform because it is something that will endure for the Greek people and is worth supporting, as it will have institutionally established responsibilities and digital tools."
In this context, Theodorikakos referred to inspections and the new complaints app that every citizen will be able to download on their mobile phone, as well as the positive impact the new Authority will have on competition.
"The new development law supports productive investments for balanced and sustainable growth," emphasised the Minister of Development, reiterating that "within June, the first three schemes will be launched-one for industry, one for large-scale investments across the country, and one for general entrepreneurship in border regions and areas with incomes below 70% of the national average."
Additionally, in September, two new schemes will follow-one for innovation and another for social entrepreneurship.
"We must do everything that is possible to support development and keep the population in peripheral areas. That’s why we have a comprehensive strategy that helps boost families’ disposable income," said the minister.
Asked about food inflation, he noted that Greece has the second-lowest rate in the EU and explained that price increases stem from specific products - chocolates, cocoa, coffee, and certain meats - where global price hikes are being driven by climate conditions and the implementation of measures to address global warming.