Wildfires: Over 509,000 euros disbursed to 59 businesses on Chios

The Greek Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, in collaboration with the Ministry of National Economy and Finance and the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE), has completed payments under a special support scheme for businesses on the island of Chios. These businesses suffered economic damage from the devastating wildfires in the summer of 2025. A total of 727,481.84 euros has been disbursed to numerous enterprises.

Specifically, 509,643.30 euros were allocated to 59 businesses within the Chios Regional Unit. These payments followed the second phase of the program, during which businesses submitted applications on the AADE's myBusinessSupport platform between July 27 and August 7. The scheme targets private businesses of all legal forms, including sole proprietorships, that meet specific criteria and incurred financial losses due to the fires.

To be eligible for this special assistance, businesses were required to demonstrate a minimum 5% reduction in their turnover between July and December 2025, compared to the highest corresponding sum from the previous five years. The amount of aid corresponds to a portion of the lost turnover, with a minimum of 3,000 euros and a maximum of 50,000 euros, adhering to European limits for de minimis aid.

In parallel, the process for compensating businesses that sustained direct material damage, such as to equipment and raw materials, continues. On August 18 alone, 217,838.54 euros were paid to 14 businesses affected by the August 2025 fires. The Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, along with relevant authorities and the Chios Regional Unit, is continuing to implement the state aid framework on the island.