" We will not tolerate profiteering at the expense of citizens," stated Maritime and Island Policy Minister Vasilis Kikilias in an interview with ANT1 TV on Wednesday.
"After seven years of continuously rising ferry ticket prices-from 2017 to 2024 they increased by 38%-the government decided and legislated, without imposing price ceilings or interfering with the free market, to reduce port fees by 50% and by engaging with the industry, this year we’ve secured reductions of up to 32% on economy-class tickets. We will continue this effort-it is our duty and my duty," he noted.
However, the minister pointed out that international crises may change the situation: "If the war in the Middle East persists for a long time, the government will adjust its strategy accordingly, and then, of course, ferry tickets will no longer be the top priority. Even more essential things for Greeks-and all Europeans-will come into play, such as primary production, diesel fuel, petrol derivatives, etc., in addition to ferry tickets."