Thessaloniki trade fair: Prime minister to announce measures on wages, pensions and taxes

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is expected to present a broad package of measures at the Thessaloniki International Fair, covering self-employed people, farmers, businesses, workers, pensioners and families with children.

For self-employed workers, farmers and businesses, the package would improve the rules governing presumed-income calculations, without abolishing them. The government is also considering gradually reducing advance tax payments and phasing out the business levy, alongside tax reductions for farmers and companies.

Workers could receive a higher minimum wage, pay increases for public employees and another reduction in social security contributions. Pensioners are expected to receive an annual allowance of 450 euros, up from 300 euros, while main pensions are expected to rise by 2.7%. From January 1, 2027, the personal difference is expected to end, allowing pension increases to be fully incorporated for eligible recipients.

Families with children could receive 150 euros per child in December 2026, along with an increase in the A21 child benefit. The package also includes lower taxation for families with three children, while officials are examining a cut in value-added tax to 6% for diapers and other child-related products.

Housing and rents are another focus. The plans include lower taxation, stronger rent refunds and a new "My Home 3" program. An increase in the heating allowance is also expected.