Greek State's Debts to Private Sector Exceed 3.7 Billion Euros

The Greek state's outstanding debts to private entities have surged past 3.7 billion euros as of May 2026, marking a significant increase from the previous year. This figure represents a rise of 431 million euros since December 2025, indicating a worsening fiscal situation despite directives for timely payments.

Key sectors contributing to this debt include hospitals, which owe their suppliers 1.519 billion euros, an increase of 122 million euros since the end of 2025. Social security organizations are also heavily indebted, with 715 million euros owed to pensioners and insured individuals, up by 49 million euros. Municipalities have accumulated 346 million euros in unpaid debts to private contractors, a substantial jump from 180 million euros in December 2025.

Adding to the financial strain are outstanding tax refunds totaling 719 million euros. The Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) is actively trying to locate thousands of taxpayers to return 176 million euros in owed refunds. However, these payments are pending due to the non-responsiveness of the beneficiaries or their failure to provide necessary documentation.

Despite government efforts and warnings to public bodies to clear their overdue obligations, the trend of increasing state debts persists. Other public legal entities owe 235 million euros, and ministries account for 159 million euros in outstanding payments. The continuous rise in these liabilities raises concerns about the state's ability to meet its financial obligations and its impact on private sector businesses and individuals.