Press Release 16/07/2025: Key meeting of PSE with Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Haris Theoharis

With the central aim of substantially strengthening the country’s extroversion and addressing significant obstacles affecting the competitiveness of Greek export enterprises, a meeting was held yesterday between the Panhellenic Exporters Association (PSE) and Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Haris Theoharis. The discussion took place in a spirit of cooperation and strategic orientation, focusing on actions that will support the growth path of Greek exports.

At the heart of the discussion were the recent developments in the international export environment, with particular reference to the 30% tariffs imposed by the U.S. on EU products, which affect Greek agri-food products such as table olives, olive oil, peaches, dairy products, wines, etc. In addition, tariffs of 50% have been announced on steel and aluminum. PSE emphasized the need for the activation of Greek diplomacy and the launch of targeted negotiations with the EU in order to secure the exemption of Greek products from excessive tariffs, as has happened in previous successful interventions. Specifically, the EU must act with a spirit of consensus while at the same time keeping all trade tools in its “arsenal” to be used in case no agreement is reached.

During the meeting, agreement was reached on the need to implement specific actions and measures, including:

• Formulation of a substantial and long-term national extroversion strategy.

• Transformation of the Extroversion Council into a Government Committee.

• Upgrade, redesign, and staffing of the Economic and Commercial Affairs Offices (OEF).

• Expansion of Enterprise Greece’s activities.

• Final transformation of Export Credit Greece (ECG) products with the strengthening of new instruments.

• Opening to new markets (Third Countries).

• Broader access to financial tools and tax incentives for export-oriented SMEs.

• Reduction of bureaucracy, simplification of customs procedures, and activation of the Single Window.

PSE submitted a well-documented memorandum with its proposals and findings, which was received positively by the Deputy Minister. Mr. Theoharis committed to continuous and close cooperation with PSE, aiming for the rapid implementation of solutions that will enhance the competitiveness of Greek exports.

Participants in the meeting included PSE President Mr. Alkis Kalampokis, Vice President Ms. Alexandra Pitta-Chazapi, Financial Supervisor Mr. Bassam Azar, and Secretary General Mr. Nikolaos Mavrikos.

Yesterday’s meeting marks a new era of practical cooperation between the State and PSE, oriented toward upgrading the Greek export strategy and transitioning to an extroversion with solid foundations and growth prospects. PSE remains steadfastly committed to its role as a catalyst of evidence-based policy and a pillar of the outward-looking Greece of tomorrow.