Greek finance minister outlines 2027 budget relief measures and energy subsidies

During a session of the Standing Committee on Economic Affairs, Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakas unveiled the draft 2027 budget, emphasizing a package of tax reliefs and social support. The plan proposes a 500-euro gross Christmas bonus for civil servants, reduces the advance tax rate for independent professionals from 55% to 50%, and eliminates tax for primary-sector farmers earning up to 20,000 euros and families with three children.

Energy assistance includes subsidies that can bring heating oil prices down to under 1.35 euros per litre and a 30% increase in heating allowances, while diesel and unleaded gasoline receive pump-side support. Social spending features a permanent 400-euro increase in annual pension benefits and a half-percentage-point reduction in insurance contributions beginning April 2027. The budget also allocates funds for the "My House III" housing program, though specific amounts were not disclosed.