National Confederation of Hellenic Commerce (ESEE) president Vassilis Korkidis (pictured) said the government is planning to introduce a single VAT rate or rate reduction to 13% in sectors such as construction, in an interview with SKAI TV. A day earlier, on Tuesday, Korkidis had met with Finance Minister Gikas Hardouvelis to discuss various matters focused on taxation.

“The minister is concerned whether a single VAT rate of 18-19% would not allow exemptions, such as in food or on islands. On the other hand, the minister is considering the scenario to keep the VAT as it is and reduce it to 13 percent in construction,” said Korkidis. During his meeting with the Finance Minister, Korkidis said that they had discussed tax reductions in ferry tickets to boost tourism and help Greek islands.